HIV Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis

HIV Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) is an anti-retroviral medication that can be taken regularly to allow one to lead a desired lifestyle, while significantly reducing one’s risk against HIV infection. Taken in the proper way, it is safe, effective and relatively affordable. Think of it akin to purchasing an insurance plan in advance. If an individual is exposed to HIV through sexual activity or other means, having taken PrEP beforehand may help to prevent HIV from establishing itself permanently in the body.

Who is PrEP suitable for?

HIV PrEP is recommended for HIV-negative individuals who fall under high risk categories for HIV infection. These include:

  • Having an HIV-positive sexual partner

  • Having multiple sexual partners, a partner with multiple partners, or a partner who engages in high risk sexual activities

  • Having unprotected or casual sex

  • Frequent engagement in sexual activities with commercial sex workers

  • Individuals who inject drugs, or having a sexual partner who injects drugs

PrEP can be taken in several ways depending on an individual’s unique lifestyle. The most common and effective method is by taking a daily dose. Clinical studies have shown that daily PrEP lowers the risk of getting HIV from sexual intercourse by as much as 99%. It is convenient and easy as only one single pill a day is required. 

If you are not keen on the idea of daily PrEP but remain interested in taking PrEP to lower your risk of contracting HIV, discuss with our doctor to understand your options, as there are other PrEP regimes that may be more suitable for you.

Prior to commencing on PrEP, an HIV test needs to be performed to confirm that you are HIV-negative. Patients are also recommended to have a routine HIV test every 3 months. Also, it is important to remember that HIV PrEP does not provide protection against any of the other Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs), therefore even if a patient is on HIV PrEP, it is advisable to always practise safe sex by using condoms, and consider screening for other STIs at least once a year.

Get in touch with us.

If you or your partner are considering starting on HIV PrEP and would like to understand more, feel free to book an appointment with our doctor. We are here to help.