PrEP

Have you heard about PrEP?

PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) is medicine that people at risk for HIV take to prevent getting HIV from sex or injection drug use. When taken as prescribed, PrEP is highly effective for preventing HIV.

As well as taking PrEP, condom use and regular testing for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) helps prevent the passing on of infections as well as HIV.

If the following applies to you, then you may be in a higher-risk group and should consider if PrEP may be a good option for you:

• If you are a HIV-negative man who has sex with men and you have had anal sex without using a condom in the previous six months and you expect to continue having anal sex without using a condom
• If you are a Transsexual woman who has had anal sex in the previous six months without using a condom and you expect to continue having anal sex without using a condom
• If you are HIV negative and have been having sex with HIV positive partners without using a condom, unless your partner has been on HIV treatment for at least 6 months and the HIV virus is undetectable

If you believe you are at risk of contracting HIV and would like to consider taking PrEP, call 0121 612 2323 or email swbh.ishus@nhs.net

PrEP can also be accessed at any sexual health clinic in England.

HIV PrEP medication is prescribed (free of charge) if you are HIV negative. It is designed to prevent the transmission of HIV infections when taken correctly. The medication can be taken daily or before and after planned sexual activity.

Further information on PrEP can be found on the I want PrEP now website.