Sexual and reproductive health and wellbeing covers a broad range of health matters, from sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and contraception to relationships and conception (getting pregnant).
Having good sexual health means that people are able to make free, informed decisions about sexuality, pleasure and reproduction throughout their lives.
The North East London Sexual and Reproductive Health Strategy outlines our shared ambition and commitment across North East London to supporting improved sexual and reproductive health for our residents.
Local services
For information about sexual health, HIV, contraception, termination of pregnancy and how to access STI and HIV testing visit the Live Well Havering website.
Sexual and reproductive health is an essential area of Public Health
Good sexual and reproductive health is an important part of everyone’s health and wellbeing.
Poor sexual and reproductive health, including the experience of sexually transmitted infections, unplanned pregnancy or unhealthy relationships can have negative impacts for individuals, families and wider society.
Sexual and reproductive health is an area of Public Health focus in Havering
Key Facts
- A total of 1,342 new STIs were diagnosed in residents of Havering in 2024.
- STIs have a disproportionate impact on young people, those from deprived areas, those from some ethnic groups, and men who have sex with men.
- 53 under 18’s became pregnant in Havering in 2022, resulting in either a birth or termination of pregnancy.
- There were 25 new cases of HIV in Havering reported in 2024.
What we do in Havering
The Council is required to provide a range of sexual and reproductive health services to local residents, including access to contraception, STI testing and treatment, and HIV testing and support.
Key initiatives
- Specialist sexual health service provided by Barking, Havering and Redbridge University Hospital NHS Trust.
- Free condom distribution provided by the borough-wide Havering - Come Correct scheme.
- HIV prevention and support services provided by Positive East
- The Sexual Health London (SHL) online e-service, which offers free home STI testing
- Long acting reversible contraception (LARC) provided by a number of local GP practices.
How you can make a change
Members of the public can:
- get tested. Visit your local sexual health clinic for confidential advice, testing and treatment or access the home-testing service.
- be informed. Understand how to prevent STIs and unwanted pregnancies using reliable resources including NHS.uk, SHL, and Brook or speak to your GP or pharmacist if you have questions about contraception, STIs or emergency care. Emergency Hormonal Contraception (EHC) is also provided by pharmacies.
- use condoms. If you're aged 13–24, you can access free condoms and support through the C-card scheme – find your nearest outlet on the Havering Come Correct website.
Professionals working in the area can:
- promote local sexual health services and let residents know how to access them.
- champion the C-Card scheme for young people aged 13-24 years. If you work with young people, or think your service could be a good venue to provide free condoms, lubricants and advice, register your organisation as a C-Card provider. Learn more at Havering - Come Correct or email haveringccard@havering.gov.uk.
- challenge stigma. Role model inclusive, non-judgmental conversations about sexual and reproductive health.