Trans sexual health

If you are trans, then, like cis people, you need to be aware of sexually transmitted infections (STIs). This means thinking carefully about your sexual behaviour, trying to avoid risky behaviour if possible, and being tested for STIs regularly if needed.

If you are a female-assigned non-binary individual or a trans man you are also at risk of STIs even if you only have sex with other female assigned individuals.

The Terrence HIggins Trust has information for trans health: transwomen and transmen. THT also have sections for male assigned non-binary people and female assigned non-binary people.

The NHS 111 Wales LGBT sexual health pages include information for trans men, women and non-binary people. These include symptoms and treatment for common STIs, advice on safe sex, and information on how to find further help.

Sexual Health for LGBT men who have sex with men, non-binary people and trans men and women

Sexual Health for LGBT women who have sex with women, non-binary people and trans men and women

 

Get tested

Not all sexually transmitted infections have symptoms. If you are sexually active, have any concerning symptoms or are worried you may have an STI you should be tested regularly. Getting tested regularly is a good idea to ensure you have a healthy sex life. NHS services are free.

Find out more about sexual health services here.

Speak to your GP or visit a GUM clinic (sexual health service). Find your local GUM clinic.

Sexual abuse/violence

Trans people are at risk of sexual violence, domestic violence and street violence. There is a higher incidence of violence against trans people and it is important that you are able to get help.

Rape and sexual assault:

The LGBT Foundation information and advice around sexual violence, including a link to a trans people specific guide.

The Rape Crisis helpline (0808 02 9999) is open from 12-2.30pm and 7-9.30pm every day of the year

Switchboard LGBT+, formerly the Lesbian and Gay Switchboard, is a helpline by and for LGBT+ people. They can provide both information and support, both phone, email and instant messaging.

Survivors UK offers web chat and support to men, including trans and gay/bisexual men, who have experienced sexual assault and rape.

Mankind offers support for men, including trans and gay/bisexual men, who have been sexually abused. Helpline: 01273 911680

 

Domestic violence:

National LGBT Domestic Abuse Helpline: 0800 999 5428 Emotional and practical support for LGBT people experiencing domestic abuse.

Stonewall information and advice for LGBT people experiencing domestic violence, including a link to a trans people specific guide.

See also our main pages for Rape and Sexual Assault and Domestic Violence.

 

Public/street violence:

Trans people are at greater risk of abuse and violence from strangers in the street. If you experience abuse or violence from a stranger in public which you know or suspect is due to their perception of your gender identity and/or sexuality, this is classed as a hate crime. Violence, including sexual violence, in private and/or from a known person, including a friend, acquaintance or current/ex-partner can also be classed as a hate crime. Online abuse can also be classed as a hate crime.

If you want your attacker to be prosecuted, reporting the attack as a hate crime can lead to a heavier penalty for them.

The Citizen’s Advice Bureau has information on hate crime, including how to recognise it and how to report it, here.

True Vision (police anti-hate crime site) have some useful advice here.

Resources

Gires trans health fact sheets.

Gires also has information about surgery for trans women, which includes sexual health information, here.

The Terrence HIggins Trust has information for trans sexual health: transwomen and transmen

See also the LGBT sexual health pages:

Sexual Health for LGBT men who have sex with men, non-binary people and trans men and women

Sexual Health for LGBT women who have sex with women, non-binary people and trans men and women