What is HIV PrEP?
HIV Pre-exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) is a medication taken to prevent HIV transmission. Learn more by watching the video linked below:
HIV PrEP works by blocking the HIV virus’ ability to multiply itself in the body, therefore, preventing you from getting HIV.
When taken as prescribed, HIV PrEP is highly effective in preventing HIV transmission. HIV PrEP Adherence is essential to maintaining effectiveness.
HIV PrEP does NOT protect against other STIs; to protect yourself against other STIs, condoms or other barriers like dental dams are a great choice.
Studies have shown that HIV PrEP can be beneficial for people of various gender identities and sexual orientations.
Is HIV PrEP only available as a pill?
Currently, there are two types of HIV PrEP on the market, a daily oral medication and a long-acting injectable form. Both are approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
Is HIV PrEP for you?
PrEP is not only a preventative tool, it becomes a part of your daily routine. Consider PrEP if you:
- Are sexually active
- Are thinking about dating someone who is living with HIV (read about U=U here)
- Are trying to have a baby with a partner who is living
with HIV - Do not always use condoms during sex
- Recently had a Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI)
- Have more than one sexual partner or your partner has sex with other partners
- Have a partner who does not regularly get screened for STIs or HIV
- Have sex for money, drugs, or a place to stay
- Tends to have sex while using drugs/alcohol
The best way to find out if HIV PrEP is for you is to consult your healthcare provider!
4 Steps to HIV PrEP
- Take HIV PrEP as prescribed
- If you forget to take your HIV PrEP, take it as soon as you remember
- Visit your doctor for refills and checkups every 3 months
- Don’t stop, restart, or change how you take your HIV PrEP without talking to your doctor.
Remember, HIV PrEP is available to you whether or not you have insurance. Be sure to ask your pharmacist or provider about patient assistance.
Where can I get HIV PrEP in St. Louis?
- Affinia Healthcare
- North Central Community Health Clinic
- Planned Parenthood
- Project ARK/The SPOT
- Washington University in St. Louis PrEP Clinic
- Vivent Health
- St. Mary’s Infectious Disease Clinic
- Mercy Infectious Disease
- Novus Health
- Family Care Health Centers
- South Hampton Healthcare
- Summers Healthcare
