Who should consider PrEP?
Consider PrEP if:
- You’re concerned about whether you have HIV
- When having sex, you missed condoms
- You are unsure that your partner uses a condom
- An STD has been identified in you
- You don’t know whether your sex partners are HIV positive
- You’re dating an HIV-positive person who may or may not be taking anti-HIV medication
- You either inject drugs yourself or have a sexual health relationship with someone who does
Why does PrEP work?
CD4 cells are the particular subset of white blood cells that HIV targets for destruction. Additionally referred to as T-cells or helper cells, CD4 cells organize a defense against harmful invaders by coordinating your body’s immune response. CD4 cells are “tricked” by HIV into serving as a safe haven where the virus can proliferate and spread throughout your body. CD4 cells are necessary for HIV to survive and spread. HIV may not have a chance if it lacks the very important CD4 cells.
Tenofovir and emtricitabine, the two antiretroviral medications that makeup PrEP, are typically taken daily and frequently in addition to other HIV medications.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, PrEP can lower the risk of HIV infection by up to 92 percent when used regularly.
PrEP functions by erecting strong “walls” around CD4 cells. These barriers prevent HIV from entering and replicating in healthy cells. HIV won’t be able to get past the barriers and reach the CD4 cells if it enters your body.
PrEP protection reportedly starts 7 to 20 days after the initial dose. Your healthcare provider must periodically check on you while you are on the PrEP therapy, typically once every one to three months.
Remember that PrEP therapy is just one more tool in the support for HIV prevention. To further reduce your risk, it is strongly advised that you combine PrEP with other methods like safe sexual practices.
Our PrEP services
- Sexually transmitted infection testing and care (STIs)
- Case manager for PrEP navigation
- Medical supervision
- Testing services
- Medication for those who are more likely to contract HIV
- HIV education and prevention (classes that teach you how to lower your chances of getting HIV)
Is PrEP safe?
Although PrEP is safe, some people do experience side effects like stomach pain, nausea, headaches, and diarrhoea. Over time, these side effects typically disappear. Any side effects that are severe or don’t go away should be mentioned to your health care provider.
F.A.Q
Is PrEP effective?
According to some studies, transgender women, gay and bisexual men, and people who regularly use PrEP can achieve even higher efficacy rates.
PrEP is very effective at preventing HIV, but it does not offer protection from other STDs (STDs). Use condoms to protect yourself from gonorrhea, chlamydia, syphilis, and other common STDs.
Before PrEP works at its best, it must be taken for a while.
Do I need to take PrEP even after using a condom?
PrEP is extremely effective at preventing HIV, but it does not offer protection from other STDs (STDs). It is simple and highly effective to use condoms to stop the sexual transmission of STDs like HIV. Additionally, the only form of protection that can stop both pregnancy and disease is the use of condoms. Condoms must be used correctly and regularly to be effective.