Sexual & Reproductive Health
Jump to the topic that fits your situation:
Not Sure Where to Start?
Contact campus health services, speak to a pharmacist, use telehealth services, or call 811 (Info-Santé). You are not expected to know the system in advance—professionals are there to help.
STI & HIV Testing
Where to Get Tested
University Health Clinics
If you are a student at McGill University, Concordia University, or Université du Québec à Montréal (UQAM), start with your campus clinic. They provide testing, prescriptions, and follow-up care. For most students, this is the simplest option.
Is Testing Covered?
RAMQ
Covered at CLSCs and public hospitals. No payment at the visit.
McGill
Covered at the Student Wellness Hub. Private clinics may require upfront payment and reimbursement.
Concordia
Covered at Concordia Health Services. Private clinics may require upfront payment and reimbursement.
UQAM
Covered at UQAM Health Services. Private clinics may require upfront payment and reimbursement.
Public Clinics (CLSC)
Government-run clinics offering STI/HIV testing.
Covered by RAMQ.
Appointment is usually required.
Find a location
Specialized Clinics
These clinics focus specifically on sexual health and may offer faster access or specialized services.
• Clinique médicale L’Actuel - STI & HIV testing, PrEP and PEP services
• Head & Hands – Youth-focused, confidential care
Before You Book
- Bring your RAMQ card or insurance information and photo ID.
- Most clinics require appointments.
- Emergency rooms are not for routine testing.
Urgent HIV Exposure (Within 72 Hours)
Seek care immediately and ask about PEP at a specialized clinic or emergency department.
Results
Results are typically available within a few days to one week. You will be contacted if follow-up is needed.
Birth Control & Contraception
Do I Need a Prescription?
Is It Covered?
RAMQ
Yes. Most hormonal contraception in Québec requires a prescription, including:
Many contraceptives are covered under the public drug plan.
- Pill
- Patch
- Ring
- Injection
McGill, Concordia, and UQAM students
Prescription contraception is generally covered under university health insurance plans (reimbursement rules apply).
Coverage amounts vary.
IUDs and implants require an in-person procedure.
No referral is needed to request contraception.
Where to Get a Prescription
University Health Clinics
If you are a student at McGill University, Concordia University, or Université du Québec à Montréal (UQAM), start with your campus clinic. They can prescribe contraception, renew prescriptions, and refer for IUD insertion.
See more campus health services.
CLSC (Public Clinics)
Covered by RAMQ. Appointment required. Some locations offer IUD services.
Find a location near you.
Telehealth
Prescriptions for the pill, patch, ring, and injection can often be issued through a virtual appointment.
IUDs and implants require an in-person visit.
Private Clinics
Private clinics in Montréal can prescribe contraception. Upfront payment may be required without RAMQ.
Emergency Contraception (Plan B)
Access
Emergency contraception is available directly at pharmacies in Québec without a prescription. You can request it from the pharmacist. It is kept behind the counter. This is usually the fastest and simplest option.
University Health Clinics
If you are a student at McGill University, Concordia University, or Université du Québec à Montréal (UQAM), campus health clinics can also provide emergency contraception or guidance.
Timing
Emergency contraception is most effective when taken as soon as possible. If you have questions, the pharmacist can advise you directly.
Cost & Coverage
The cost is typically $30–$50 at a pharmacy.
RAMQ
May cover the medication in certain cases.
University insurance plans (McGill, Concordia, UQAM)
May reimburse the cost. You may need to pay upfront and submit a receipt.
Important
Emergency contraception does not protect against STIs. If you are concerned about STI exposure, see the STI & HIV Testing section.