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Is PrEP Right For You?

PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) is a powerful way to protect yourself from HIV. It's not just about who you are, or your sexual behaviors – it’s also about where you live and your risk factors. 

 

PrEP is a medicine that helps prevent HIV. When taken as prescribed, it’s over 99% effective at stopping HIV from sex and at least 74% effective from injection drug use.​​​

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You might consider PrEP if:

PrEP options for you:

  • You have sex without condoms 

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  • You live in an area with a high rate of HIV (ex., Washington DC) *​ Sometimes your zip code is more important than your behaviors. High rates in your community mean more exposure risk, even if you’re careful.

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  • You or you or your partner(s) have multiple partners 

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  • You or your partner(s) have HIV or don’t know their status 

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  • You have had a sexually transmitted infection in the last 6 months 

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  • You inject drugs or share needles 

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  • You engage in sex work 

Pills: 

Daily pill (Truvada or Descovy) 

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  • Truvada: Approved for all people at risk of HIV (Men, women and people who inject drugs) 

  • Descovy: Approved for cisgender men and transgender women, not yet approved for people assigned female at birth, having vaginal sex. 

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  • May be best for 

    • People who like daily routines 

    • Those who want a non-invasive option (no needles) 

    • People who want to start or stop more easily 

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Injections: â€‹

  • Apretude (cabotegravir): First and only long-acting injectable PrEP approved by the FDA 

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  • May be best for 

    • People who don’t want to take a daily pill 

    • Folks who have trouble remembering to take pills 

    • Those who prefer a more private option 

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 Is PrEP suitable for me?

PrEP for Women

If you’re at risk for HIV, PrEP could be a great fit. Our nurse practitioners have decades of expertise on HIV prevention and management, and can help you decide what works best for your body and lifestyle.

 

PrEP is safe and effective for:  

  • Men 

  • Women 

  • Transgender and non-binary people 

  • People of all sexual orientations​

  • If you live in an area with a high prevalence of HIV (ex., DC and other cities with higher rates. â€‹

Yes, PrEP is for women too!

 

If you live in an area with a high rate of HIV, don’t always use condoms or are planning a pregnancy with someone who may be at risk– PrEP can protect you and your baby.

 

PrEP is safe during pregnancy, breastfeeding and menstruation.

 

Talk to a doctor about what’s best for you!

PrEP Medication Side Effects and Interactions with other Medications

Most people have mild to no side effects. When starting PrEP, some may feel: 

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  • Headache 

  • Nausea 

  • Tiredness â€‹

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These usually go away in a few days or weeks. Serious side effects are very rare. â€‹

PrEP is safe to take with most other medications, including birth control, HRT, and mental health medications.

 

Just tell your provider about everything you take, so they can be sure it's the best choice for you.  â€‹â€‹â€‹

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