PrEP (Before) & PEP (After SEX) : Your Complete Guide to HIV Prevention
HIV prevention has never been more effective or more accessible. Two powerful tools—PrEP and PEP—give people real control over their sexual health, no matter their background, identity, or reason for seeking protection. Here’s what you need to know, and whether you should be discussing this with your gyno or PCP.
What Is PrEP?
PrEP stands for Pre‑Exposure Prophylaxis—a medication taken before possible exposure to HIV to prevent infection.
How Well Does PrEP Work?
When taken as prescribed, PrEP reduces the risk of getting HIV by more than 90%.
It’s extremely effective, but note: PrEP does not protect against other sexually transmitted infections (STIs)—so condoms are still helpful for full protection. And we suggest you come in for culture testing when you suspect exposure or have plans for a new partner and want to try to enter the relationship clean
Who Should Consider PrEP?
PrEP is for anyone who wants extra protection, including:
- People who are sexually active and want peace of mind, especially if you have more than one partner.
- Those whose partners have HIV
- Anyone who shares needles or injection supplies
- People with a recent STI
- Anyone who simply wants PrEP—your reasons are your own, and you don’t have to justify them
There is no judgment, no required risk “criteria,” and no need to explain your sexual activity. It’s important for people having heterosexual or homosexual relationships.
Types of PrEP Have expanded
1. Daily Pill
- Take one pill every day
- Protection generally starts within 7 days
- Two FDA‑approved options exist—we’ll help you choose
2. Injectable PrEP
- An injection every 2 months
- First two injections are 4 weeks apart
- A great option if you prefer not to take daily medication
What to Expect When Starting PrEP
Your First Visit, Suggestions
- HIV test
- STI screening
- Kidney function lab work
- Let us know all medications you are taking so we can check for drug interactions
- Discussion of which PrEP option is right for you
Every 3 Months, OR when exposued to new partner
- HIV testing
- STI screening
- Medication refill or next injection
- Quick check‑in about any side effects or concerns
Most people experience little to no side effects—and if they occur, they’re typically mild and temporary.
Important: PrEP is only effective when taken consistently. We’ll help you build habits that make it easy.
What Is PEP?
PEP stands for Post‑Exposure Prophylaxis. This is emergency medication taken after a possible exposure to HIV.
When Should You Seek PEP?
You should seek PEP as soon as possible, and definitely within 72 hours (3 days) of potential exposure.
Examples include:
- Condom breakage or delayed use during sex
- Shared needles
- Sexual assault
- Any situation where you’re worried a potential exposure occurred
The sooner you start PEP, the more effective it is.
How Does PEP Work?
- You take 3 medications daily for 28 days
- It reduces HIV risk by 80–90% when started within the 72‑hour window
- Treatment should begin immediately—don’t wait for test results
Follow‑up Testing
- At 1 month
- At 3 months
- At 6 months
Most people tolerate the medications well.
Cost, Access & Privacy and Other PRotection!
Good news: Most insurance plans cover PrEP and PEP with little or no out-of-pocket cost. If you don’t have insurance or have cost concerns, we suggest seeing public health in your area. Your care is private and confidential. We provide a safe, judgment‑free space to discuss your health, your questions, and your goals.
being on an antibiotic protect against Other sti
Antibiotic use when having sex or taken within 72 hours of unprotected sex can reduce the risk of contracting syphilis, chlamydia and gonorrhea. This is called doxy-PEP for the antibiotic doxycycline.
Need PEP Urgently?
Call us immediately or go to the nearest emergency room.
Remember: PEP must start within 72 hours.
Quick Reminders
- Condoms provide extra protection against HIV and STIs
- Plan B or other post unprotected pregnancy prevention strategies also are important in situations of unprotected sex or assault, but they will not protect against HIV
- Contraceptives, even gel like Phrexxi do not protect against STD
- Pap smears are not STI testing and you may need to request that testing if it is time for your pap
- HPV and Hepatitis vaccinations protect against those transmittable diseases
- Avoid sex if you have an untreated STI and let your partner know when to be screened as well
- Regular testing empowers you to care for your health
- You can start, stop, or restart PrEP at any time—your choice
- We’re your partners in health, without judgment
References
- Preexposure Prophylaxis to Prevent Acquisition of HIV: US Preventive Services Task Force Recommendation Statement. US Preventive Services Task Force, Barry MJ, Nicholson WK, et al. JAMA. 2023;330(8):736-745. doi:10.1001/jama.2023.14461.
- Antiretroviral Drugs for Treatment and Prevention of HIV in Adults: 2024 Recommendations of the International Antiviral Society–USA Panel. Gandhi RT, Landovitz RJ, Sax PE, et al. JAMA. 2025;333(7):609-628. doi:10.1001/jama.2024.24543.
- Antiretroviral Postexposure Prophylaxis After Sexual, Injection Drug Use, or Other Nonoccupational Exposure to HIV – CDC Recommendations, United States, 2025. Tanner MR, O’Shea JG, Byrd KM, et al. MMWR. Recommendations and Reports : Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report. Recommendations and Reports. 2025;74(1):1-56. doi:10.15585/mmwr.rr7401a1.
- Preexposure Prophylaxis for the Prevention of HIV: Updated Evidence Report and Systematic Review for the US Preventive Services Task Force. Chou R, Spencer H, Bougatsos C, et al. JAMA. 2023;330(8):746-763. doi:10.1001/jama.2023.9865.
- Antiretroviral Drugs for Treatment and Prevention of HIV Infection in Adults: 2020 Recommendations of the International Antiviral Society–USA Panel. Saag MS, Gandhi RT, Hoy JF, et al. JAMA. 2020;324(16):1651-1669. doi:10.1001/jama.2020.17025.
- Treatment and Prevention of HIV Infection: Recommendations From the International Antiviral Society-USA Panel. Arnold MJ. American Family Physician. 2024;109(1):93A-93C. Sent from my iPhone
