Healthy relationships and sexual health

A healthy relationship is one where everyone feels comfortable, listened to, and able to be themselves. It could be:

• Short-term – like casual dating, new friendships, or early romantic/sexual connections.
• Long-term – where there’s a deeper emotional connection, commitment, and shared goals.

Whatever stage you’re in, a good relationship should make you feel good about yourself, give you space to grow, and encourage your independence.

Signs of a healthy relationship:

• Consent – everyone involved agrees to what’s happening, every time.
• Respect – boundaries, feelings, and choices are valued.
• Good communication – you can talk honestly about what you want, don’t want, and anything you’re unsure about.
• Equality – no one pressures, manipulates, or controls the other.
• Trust and safety – you feel safe emotionally and physically.
• Healthy disagreements – arguments are handled with calm and respect.
• Support – you’re there for each other through the ups and downs.
• Choice – you can leave if it no longer feels right.

Healthy Sexual Relationships

Sex isn’t just physical — it’s also about trust, care, and mutual respect. What’s healthy can look different for different people, but it’s always about making sure everyone’s needs, boundaries, and wellbeing are respected.

This might mean:

• You both enjoy it.
• You protect each other from STIs and unintended pregnancy.
• You respect each other’s consent and limits.
• You feel accepted in your orientation and gender identity.
• You can choose to have sex — or not — without any pressure.
• You’re free from any exploitation, coercion, or harm.

What is Sexual Violence?

We define sexual violence as any sexual act occurring without the consent of all parties. This includes, but is not limited to:

• sexual assault,
• rape,
• sexual harassment,
• stalking,
• the sharing of sexual images without consent.

Looking after your sexual health is a big part of maintaining your overall wellbeing and relationships. Whether you are currently sexually active or will be in the near future, there are few things you can do to make sure you are keeping on top of your sexual health.

• Have appropriate contraception - you can order branded condoms via the HealthyNTU condom scheme. Contraception is not just one person's responsibility.
• Get STI tested between every new sexual partner - STI's can take up to 2 weeks to show symptoms and some may not show any symptoms at all. Getting regularly tested is the best way to prevent the spread of STI's.
• Drop in to a sexual health clinic if you have any concerns or need some advice about your sexual health.

Contraception

You can now visit your local pharmacy to start or renew your contraceptive pill or access emergency contraception (the morning after pill). You don't need to see your GP beforehand.

Condoms are the most effective form of contraception for preventing unwanted pregnancies and the spread of STI's. If you are on another form of contraception, such as the coil or the pill, it is recommended to also use a condom to stop you contracting an STI.

LGBTQIA+ Sexual Health

LGBTQIA+ individuals may experience additional challenges in accessing sexual health and relationship support due to stigma and marginalisation. There are a range of inclusive services in Nottingham that specialise in supporting the LGBTQIA+ community with sexual health and relationships.

• Sexual Health Services Nottingham and Nottinghamshire
• The Health Shop
• Sexpression:UK
• Notts LGBT+ Network

You can also check out NTSU's guide for LGBTQ+ communities including how you can join the Pride student society.

Nottingham Sexual Health Services host a weekly confidential drop in at Brackenhurst for students, covering all things sexual health. They provide:

• 121 support around relationships, pregnancy options, STI’s and contraception
• Self-tests for Chlamydia and Gonorrhoea
• Pregnancy testing
• C Card registration and pick up
• Appointments for clinics
• Referrals into other services

You can find them in Bramley TL17 every Thursday between 10am and 12:30pm.