Thinking outside the box: meeting the sexual health needs of women presenting for emergency contraception.

This was a retrospective audit of sexual health screening and advice for long-term contraception in 174 and 993 women attending genitourinary (GU) medicine and contraceptive services (CS), respectively, for emergency hormonal contraception (EHC) over a 21-month period (April 2007-September 2008). Assessment and screening for sexually transmitted infection (including HIV) were more comprehensive at GU medicine (78% offered screening at GU medicine versus 17% at CS) while contraceptive management was more complete at CS (ongoing contraception discussed in 99% at CS versus 78% at GU medicine). Follow-up was seldom recommended or attended. Local HIV prevalence necessitates a more pro-active approach to HIV testing. Women requesting EHC present to a variety of clinical settings, each with their own areas of expertise. In an age of integrated sexual and reproductive health, these women deserve a holistic approach to care.