Can PrEP Be The Difference?

Being open about human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and sexual health was once a taboo subject. In many respects, some people still struggle with the topic, mainly because stigmas remain. At the same time, there has never been a greater time to stay safe from HIV and manage sexual health effectively. Perhaps the most important development in HIV prevention is effective pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) use. When taken as prescribed, PrEP significantly reduces the risk of HIV infection. Even those who choose PrEP still face negativity and stigma. An understanding of the importance of PrEP helps anyone take control of long-term sexual health. In many respects, being in control can even break down the walls of stigma.

A powerful medication

For years, doctors had to deal with HIV after the infection took hold of an individual’s body. The only proactive options were abstinence and effective condom use. While these are still necessary, PrEP has emerged as an effective way to take control of one’s sexual health. PrEP is a preventative medication for people without HIV but who have a higher risk of exposure. When taken correctly, PrEP ensures there are enough antibodies in the immune cells. Should HIV infection occur, PrEP blocks the enzymes responsible for duplicating the virus in the body. Statistics show that PrEP can prevent the spread of HIV infection up to 99% through sexual contact or 74% through shared injection use.

Who should use PrEP?

While PrEP is effective, the medication is not for everyone. For individuals who are not sexually active or those in monogamous relationships who get consistent HIV testing, PrEP may not be necessary. PrEP is ideal for individual circumstances where the risk of infection is greater. For instance, individuals with multiple sexual partners or those in serodiscordant relationships can benefit from consistent PrEP use. Men who have sex with men (MSM), people who inject drugs (PWID), or those whose partner’s HIV status is unknown should use PrEP. The decision is individual and should be made with a doctor’s guidance. A doctor or sexual health professional can recommend or prescribe PrEP based on these factors.

Using PrEP effectively

For PrEP to work, proper use is non-negotiable. This is a prescription medication available in oral or injectable form, with oral use the most popular. Before starting PrEP, HIV testing ensures this is the best course of action. PrEP is then used daily, taking an oral pill at the same time every day. Several days of consistent use are essential to build an effective viral load. PrEP can also be used on-demand. For instance, PrEP is used 2-24 hours before and after sex or a risky encounter. Consistent use is essential to success. If someone misses a dose, taking the correct dose immediately the next day is recommended. While PrEP has high success rates, the medication does not prevent other sexually transmitted infections (STIs), so proper protection is still necessary.

Navigating the stigma

PrEP has become an important part of HIV prevention. Yet, there are still feelings of stigma around using and discussing this essential medication. PrEP users often worry that others will make assumptions about the individual’s sexual activity or personal decisions. Young adults in particular face backlash from parents or see others in the community encounter stigma. For many communities, discussing or taking proactive steps about sexual health is still considered taboo. These issues can discourage those who really need PrEP from sourcing or using protective medication. Individuals hoping to navigate stigma should first see PrEP is an effective sexual health tool, similar to condom use. For those at risk, PrEP is as necessary as any other preventative health tool. Getting support from groups and resources helps to openly discuss PrEP use and manage stigmas more effectively.

Supporting sexual health

PrEP gives individuals greater control over HIV prevention. The medication adds another layer of protection along with safe sex practices. Sexual health is fluid and highly individual. PrEP can fit relationships or personal circumstances that testing and condom use alone may not support. Choosing PrEP can sometimes be the missing link for complete sexual health. People who use prescription PrEP consistently must engage healthcare providers more often. As a result, this increases HIV testing and discussions about sexual health. Over time, individuals become more comfortable with the topic and see PrEP as essential. The walls of stigma break down, and these individuals become powerful advocates for sexual health.

Confidence begins with knowledge

Sexual health can be taken for granted, often due to poor discussions around the topic. HIV prevention has taken significant strides in recent history, and this is mainly due to the increase in PrEP use. This medication can be the missing link for those who need added protection. Although stigmas around HIV and PrEP use still exist, this should not prevent exploring the use of the medication. Preventing HIV infection is a responsible choice for individuals and the wider community. Talk with a doctor or sexual health specialist about PrEP use and any concerns around stigma. These health professionals guide countless individuals on effective medications and resources to help them feel empowered.