Stay PrEPared. Stay Protected. Stay HIV-Free
What is PrEP?
Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) is a daily medication that significantly reduces the risk of contracting HIV when taken as prescribed. PrEP is a safe and effective way to prevent HIV. It’s available as a daily pill. The FDA has approved two oral medications for daily PrEP.
- Daily PrEP Pills: Daily PrEP involves taking one pill each day. This is a very effective way to prevent HIV when taken consistently. The available medications are Truvada (also available generically) and Descovy.
Women can safely use PrEP to protect themselves from HIV. It has no impact on hormonal birth control or hormone therapy. PrEP is safe for use during all stages of family planning, including conception, pregnancy, and breastfeeding.
Please note: PrEP protects you from HIV, but PrEP does not help to prevent pregnancy or other sexually transmitted infections. Using multiple strategies, like PrEP and condoms, provides better protection because each method protects against different things or in different ways. Combining methods offers the most comprehensive protection.
Prevention options include:
• PrEP (daily or injectable)
• Condoms
• Safer drug use practices (e.g., not sharing needles, syringes, or other drug equipment with other people)
• HIV and STI testing and treatment
• Maintaining an undetectable status (if you are living with HIV)
• Open and honest communication about sexual health with partner(s)
• Talking to your doctor about your sexual history, drug use, and prevention options
Why take PrEP?
Thinking about PrEP? The first step is an HIV test. If your test is negative, we can discuss whether PrEP is right for you. Schedule an appointment today!
Consider taking PrEP if you do not have HIV and any of the following apply to you. If you:
- Have a sexual partner who is living with HIV
- Have multiple sexual partners and do not consistently use condoms
- Engage in sex without using condoms regularly
- Share needles or injection equipment
- Have been diagnosed with a sexually transmitted infection (STI) recently
If you believe PrEP may be a good option for you, call 229-539-1486 to discuss whether it’s the right choice for your situation.
How to get PrEP?
Find a Provider
• Our clinics offer confidential and supporting consultations.
Get Your Prescription
• PrEP is available through healthcare providers and community clinics. Some programs may offer PrEP for free or at low cost if you qualify.
Convenient Access
• Pick up at your local pharmacy
• Mail delivery options for those in remote areas
FAQs: Your PrEP Questions Answered
How effective is PrEP?
PrEP reduces the risk of getting HIV through sex by 99% when taken correctly.
Are there any side effects?
Most people tolerate PrEP well. Some may experience mild nausea or headaches, which typically goes away within a few days. Injections may cause temporary pain, swelling, or redness at the injection site.
Do I still need to use condoms?
PrEP protects against HIV but not other STIs or pregnancy. Using condoms adds an extra layer of protection.
How do I pay for PrEP?
Most insurance plans cover PrEP. If you’re uninsured, financial assistance programs may help cover the cost. Our staff can help you navigate these options.
Do I need regular check-ups while on PrEP?
Yes, follow-up visits every 3 months ensure PrEP is working for you and monitor your health.
What if I miss a dose?
For daily PrEP, missing an occasional dose doesn’t mean you’re unprotected, but it’s best to take it consistently. Injectable PrEP requires on-time visits. Talk to your provider if you anticipate needing to reschedule.