EAST Cheshire NHS Trust is encouraging love-struck romantics to practice safe sex this Valentine’s Day to protect their sexual health.

While many people will only have eyes for one another this Valentine’s Day, East Cheshire NHS Trust is reminding people of the dangers of having unprotected sex.

These include contracting sexually-transmitted infections (STIs) such as chlamydia, gonorrhoea and HIV, as well as unplanned pregnancies if adequate protection is not used.

The trust, which runs sexual health clinics in many parts of the county including Macclesfield, Congleton, Sandbach, Crewe, Handforth and Knutsford, also highlighted the availability of local clinics to encourage people to get checked before any amorous encounters.

East Cheshire NHS Trust’s medical director Dr John Hunter said: “This Valentine’s Day we are urging people looking for love to take precautions, practice safe sex and enjoy the celebrations safely.

“This health warning applies to people of all age groups and sexual orientations as infections, including HIV, are prevalent among all sections of the community.

"There is a wealth of information about practicing safe sex available online, including on the NHS Choices website.

“Anyone who has experienced any symptoms or has any concerns about their sexual health should visit their nearest clinic or our dedicated sexual health website - gosexualhealth.co.uk.

"There is local help available so to find your nearest clinic or get in touch with us for completely confidential, non-judgemental advice and support.”

A full list of clinics in Cheshire can be found at the gosexualhealth website - gosexualhealth.com.

The clinics also provide services around contraception, in addition to sexual health, and chlamydia testing postal kits can also be ordered from the gosexualhealth website.

In addition to services commissioned by Cheshire East Council, East Cheshire NHS Trust also operates clinics in the Cheshire West and Chester Council footprint.

The ‘gosh’ website is easily accessible and provides detailed information on topics such as sexually transmitted infections, contraception and pregnancy. The site also incorporates listings of the nearest sexual clinics within the area.

East Cheshire NHS Trust runs far reaching community services across a wide area of Cheshire along with hospitals in Macclesfield, Knutsford and Congleton.

For more information on the ‘gosh’ campaign, sexual health and clinics in the area visit gosexualhealth.co.uk