I understand that we may be discussing very personal and sensitive details of your life. Talking about something as private as your sexual life can be difficult, particularly if you feel uncomfortable about the confidentiality of the information you disclose. Trust is an essential part of the doctor-patient relationship and confidentiality is essential to this. Doctors are under both ethical and legal duties to protect patients’ personal information from improper disclosure. Anything you tell me will be kept strictly confidential, unless in the rare situation I need to share information for your own protection e.g. suicidal risk. Limited information will only be shared with your GP or other services, if you give permission.
Having worked in Sexual Health for over a decade I know that it can be difficult sharing intimate details of your sex life. Please be reassured that I will provide a safe space for you to share your feelings and experiences. I will not be judgemental or shocked by your story.
As a doctor I am bound to act with the GMC Confidentiality Guidelines: Good practice in handling patient information April 2017 www.gmc-uk.org/guidance