Five FAQS from Women about PrEP

1. What is PrEP?

Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) is a once-daily medication that prevents HIV. When taken every day as prescribed, PrEP reduces the risk of getting HIV up to 99% in HIV-negative individuals. You can lower your risk even more if you combine PrEP with condoms and other safe-sex prevention methods.

2. Is PrEP right for me?

The only way to know for sure is to talk to your doctor, but PrEP is especially recommended for those who are HIV negative and either:

• Have multiple or anonymous sexual partners

• Do not use condoms or do not use condoms regularly

• Are male and have male sexual partners

• Use injection drugs or mood-altering drugs, such as alcohol, methamphetamines, cocaine, or ecstasy

• Have sex in exchange for money, drugs, housing, etc.

• Have a sexual partner living with HIV or a sexual partner whose status is unknown.

3. How will prep interact with my other meds?

If you’re on birth control, hormone therapy, or even breastfeeding, you can still take PrEP safely. Of course, you should always have a conversation with your doctor to be sure, but most people report no side effects while taking PrEP.

4. Can I take PrEP while on my period?

Yep! Take PrEP every day, even when you have your period too.

5. Isn't HIV just for gay men?

No way. In fact, women account for 20% of new HIV occurrences. Anyone can come in contact with HIV, regardless of their gender, sexuality, or lifestyle. So why not protect yourself?