Clinics and Services

We offer a weekly anti-coagulation service here at the surgery. This is specifically to monitor those patients who have been prescribed Warfarin.

There are designated services available for patients with these conditions. The aim is to support patients and help them to understand and manage their condition with the most appropriate available treatment.

We offer a cervical cytology service which is carried out by our specially trained nurses. All females between the ages of 25 to 64 years are notified when their cervical cytology test is due. Patients will receive written notification of the result.

Find out more on the NHS website

The doctors and health visitors offer a programme of developmental checks for new babies and pre-school children in accordance with NHS guidelines.

We hold weekly clinics offering a comprehensive childhood immunisation service. All children should be given protection against the diseases of Diphtheria, Tetanus, Whooping Cough, Polio, Mumps, Measles, German Measles and Meningitis.

Find out more on the NHS website

The Practice offers a comprehensive & confidential family planning service. This includes oral contraception, contraceptive coils and contraceptive Implant (fitting & removal) and participation in the “C” Card scheme.

Find out more about contraception on the NHS website

All patients are welcome to request an appointment for a general health check with a member of the nursing team and in particular we offer anyone over the age of 40 to attend for health review.

You may have received a message or letter from a clinician or our Prescription Team asking you to use our health kiosk for a health check.

It could be to update your patient record with height and weight measurements, or blood pressure for a repeat prescription review including contraception, HRT or other medication.

The results will be available at any future appointments giving you more time to ask questions, discuss treatments and complete any further requests if required.

There’s no need to make an appointment. You can use the kiosk anytime during surgery opening hours.

It is easy to use as there are on screen prompts on the touch screen to guide you through the process.

Standard health checks take no more than 10 minutes to complete, and your results are instantly saved to your patient record.

Watch this YouTube video to find out about the health kiosk.

We offer advice, care and support for patients who have high blood pressure, angina or who have had a heart attack. We look at all aspects which lead to coronary heart disease.

Antenatal and postnatal care is shared with the community midwives. If you are pregnant and want to register with the local midwifery service, please visit the NHS North West Anglia website. All maternity bookings are made through this link with the midwives at Peterborough hospital and within the community. 

A number of Minor Surgical procedures can be carried out here at the Surgery under local anaesthetic. Patients should make a routine surgery appointment for a doctor to assess the suitability for this type of surgery.

More information about the Community Surgical Service 

Doctors and nurses offer advice and support to patients who wish to stop smoking. 

About vasectomy

A vasectomy is a safe, permanent method of contraception offered free by the NHS. It involves sealing the tubes (vas deferens) that carry sperm, preventing pregnancy without impacting hormone levels or sexual function.

Watch Dr Eames explain more about it in this short video 

How vasectomy works

Sperm is produced in the testes and travels through tubes called vas deferens. A vasectomy blocks these tubes, preventing sperm from mixing with seminal fluid during ejaculation. Testosterone production and sexual drive are unaffected. The procedure does not affect masculinity or sexual performance.

Who performs the vasectomy procedure?

The procedure is carried out by experienced GP specialists:

• Dr Mike Henchy: Over 25 years of vasectomy experience, with more than 3,500 procedures.
• Dr Tom Eames: More than 10 years of minor surgical experience, and member of the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh.

Both specialists are accredited by the Association of Surgeons in Primary Care. 

Procedures are conducted in a dedicated, comfortable theatre at Sheepmarket Surgery.

Considering a vasectomy

A vasectomy might be suitable if:

• You and your partner have decided your family is complete.
• You desire a reliable, permanent contraception method.
• You have decided not to have children in the future.

Vasectomy is highly effective, with fewer than 1 in 2,000 procedures resulting in pregnancy. It is also safer and more effective than female sterilisation. However, some men may regret the decision, especially younger men under 30 years of age. Reversals are possible but success rates vary.

When vasectomy might not be suitable

A vasectomy may not be appropriate if:

• You are young or unsure about having children in the future.
• You are experiencing significant stress, depression, or relationship difficulties.
• You might consider vasectomy reversal later.
• You have severe obesity, as this could complicate the procedure.

These issues are discussed thoroughly at the pre-operative consultation.

The pre-operative consultation

Patients attend a consultation at Sheepmarket Surgery or St Mary's Medical Centre. During this session:

• Your medical history is reviewed.
• The vasectomy procedure and risks are clearly explained.
• Any questions or concerns are fully addressed.
• Additional medical tests may be arranged if necessary.

Preparing for the procedure

To ensure a smooth procedure:

• Trim hair around the scrotal area.
• Wear supportive, snug underwear.
• Eat a light meal before arriving.
• Arrange for someone to drive you home.

The non-scalpel vasectomy procedure

We use the modern no-scalpel method, taking around 20 to 30 minutes under local anaesthetic:

• A small clamp gently secures the vas deferens externally.
• A tiny hole in the skin allows access to lift, heat-seal, and divide the tubes which are then placed back into the scrotum.

This advanced method offers significant benefits over traditional techniques:

• Less tissue damage
• Shorter operating time
• Quicker recovery
• Lower risk of pain, bleeding, and complications
• Reduced risk of infection
• Fewer failures

Local anaesthetic minimises discomfort, and most sensations during the procedure are mild.

On the day of the procedure

• Automatic number plate recognition cameras are in use at the surgery. Register your vehicle on the screens in reception within 10 minutes of arrival. There is a two-hour maximum time limit. 
• Register at reception and our staff will guide you to the theatre; your partner can accompany you if desired.
• You will sign a consent form with the GP specialist.
• Afterward, you will rest in the recovery area, where your partner may join if not already present.
• Bring your own drink, as refreshments are not provided.
• Detailed aftercare instructions, including semen analysis arrangements, are provided.
• You will receive a follow-up questionnaire to evaluate your experience.

Recovery after vasectomy

• Wear tight-fitting underwear for about a week to support and protect your testicles.
• Avoid sport or lifting anything heavy for as long as the doctor or nurse advises – this is usually 1 to 2 weeks.
• Do not take part in sexual activity, including masturbation, for at least 2 to 7 days after having a vasectomy.
• Do not drive until you can safely do an emergency stop – check with your insurance company. 
• Use another method of contraception until a GP confirms that the vasectomy has been successful – this usually takes around 12 weeks.

Potential risks and complications

Though rare, potential short-term complications include:

• Mild pain and discomfort.
• Brusing and minor bleeding.
• Swelling (haematoma).
• Minor infection occasionally needing antibiotics.

Most short-term complications resolve on their own without the need to see a GP. If complications continue, you can contact the practice for advice or see your own GP.

Rare longer-term complications:

• Early failure. 
• Chronic discomfort (post-vasectomy pain syndrome).
• Natural rejoining of tubes.
• Testicle loss due to blood vessel damage.

A vasectomy does not affect sexual drive or hormone levels. Ejaculation continues normally, without sperm. Many individuals report improved relationships and intimacy once pregnancy concerns are eliminated.

Why choose our clinic?

• Personalised care from friendly local GPs who take time to understand your individual health needs.
• Convenient, community-based service close to home, making the process easier and more comfortable.
• Open, respectful, and confidential conversations ensuring you and your partner feel comfortable asking any questions.
• Full support at every stage, from the first consultation right through to recovery, making sure you feel informed and confident throughout.

Booking a consultation or making an enquiry

Referrals should be made through patients' own GP surgeries via the Referral System.

Patients from The Stamford Surgery can use our online consultation platform or call after 10.30am on 01780 437 017.

Joint consultations with partners are encouraged, with initial assessments available by telephone.

Clinic availability:

We have vasectomy appointments available, and we will do our best to find a time that works for you.

The clinic is approved by the Faculty of Sexual and Reproductive Healthcare as a training centre. Qualified trainees supervised by Dr Henchy may perform procedures.

From 23 June 2025, the NHS is making new weight loss medications available to a limited number of eligible patients. These treatments include Tirzepatide (brand name Mounjaro®), alongside other medicines approved for managing obesity.

Find out more here.