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PrEP/PEP Services
Positive Assistance offers both PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) and PEP (post-exposure prophylaxis) as part of its comprehensive HIV prevention services. PrEP is a daily medication that can significantly reduce the risk of getting HIV for individuals who may be at higher risk through sexual activity or injection drug use. PEP is an emergency prevention treatment that can help stop HIV infection after a possible exposure, but it must be started within 72 hours. PEP may be appropriate after situations such as unprotected sex, a condom failure, sharing needles, or sexual assault.
What is PrEP?
PrEP stands for Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis. It is a medication used by people who do not have HIV to help prevent getting HIV before potential exposure. It can be taken two different ways - pills or injection. When taken as prescribed, PrEP can prevent HIV by up to 99%.
What is PEP?
PEP stands for Post-Exposure Prophylaxis. It is a short course of HIV medicines that can help prevent HIV infection after a possible exposure has already occurred. It must be taken within 72 hours of exposure.
Am I A Candidate for PrEP?
Positive Assistance is committed to supporting individuals at risk for HIV through education, prevention resources, and connections to care. One of the most effective HIV prevention options available today is PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis), a medication that can significantly reduce the risk of acquiring HIV when taken as prescribed. You may benefit from learning more about PrEP if you:
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Have a sexual partner who is living with HIV
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Have sex without consistently using condoms
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Have a history of sexually transmitted infections (STIs/STDs)
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Share needles, syringes, or other injection equipment
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Engage in activities that may increase your risk of HIV exposure
Positive Assistance can help connect you with healthcare providers and resources to determine whether PrEP is right for you. Before PrEP is prescribed, an HIV test is required to confirm that you are HIV-negative, as PrEP is intended for HIV prevention and is not used to treat HIV.
How does the PrEP Process Work?
Positive Assistance helps connect individuals to HIV prevention resources and services, including information about PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis). If you're interested in PrEP, a healthcare provider from Inclusive Care will typically review your medical history, discuss factors that may increase your risk of HIV exposure, and perform laboratory testing, including an HIV test, before prescribing the medication.
For PrEP to be most effective, it should be taken exactly as prescribed. For individuals using daily oral PrEP, consistent daily use is important to maintain protection against HIV.
Healthcare providers generally recommend regular follow-up appointments and routine HIV testing while taking PrEP. These visits help ensure the medication remains appropriate for your needs and provide opportunities to discuss your overall sexual health and prevention goals.
Positive Assistance can help individuals access information about affordable HIV prevention options, connect with healthcare providers, and learn about programs that may help reduce the cost of PrEP and related services.
While PrEP is highly effective at preventing HIV when taken as prescribed, it does not protect against other sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Positive Assistance encourages safer sex practices and can provide education, resources, and referrals to help individuals protect their overall health and well-being.
To learn more about PrEP, HIV prevention, and available community resources, contact Positive Assistance today here.
