High levels of non-attendance at SHCs for symptomatic women and men in the past year although approximately half had been to an SHC before.

Younger people more likely to have attended than older people.

No significant gender differences in attendance.

Some younger participants had attended SHCs for symptoms and STI testing (delays in help-seeking and misreporting in survey).

Most participants did not think their symptoms were caused by STIs so did not seek specialist care at SHCs.

Younger participants were more aware of SHCs.

Use of SHCs can vary depending on type of symptoms experienced and perceived cause of symptoms.

SHCs perceived as a service for younger people.

Qualitative findings help explain quantitative data.

GP preferred unless individuals had previously attended an SHC.

GPs were a more familiar, less stigmatised type of healthcare service because of their generalist approach.

Some participants preferred the specialism of SHCs once they were familiar with the service.

Decision making about care needs and care-seeking is often complex.

Choice of different services valued.

Need to better understand links between hypothetical service preferences and actual care-seeking behaviour for genitourinary symptoms.

Qualitative findings help explain quantitative data.

Did not seek any healthcare: concealment, normalisation and dismissal.

Sought information (internet and social network) to self-diagnose/self-treat.

Sought care at another service: mainly GP.