The holidays are a time for celebration, connection, and love—but they’re also a great time to prioritize your health. Whether you’re traveling, reuniting with old friends, or meeting someone new under the mistletoe, staying protected should always be on your to-do list. That’s where PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) comes in. PrEP is a simple, effective way to prevent HIV, helping you stay safe and confident no matter what’s on your holiday agenda. 

So, before the festivities begin, let’s get you “PrEP’d” and ready to enjoy the season to the fullest!

Who should be on PrEP?

We now know that PrEP reduces the risk of getting HIV from sex by about 99% and reduces the risk of getting HIV from injection drug use by at least 74%. However, it’s important to note that it’s crucial to stay consistent when it comes to a PrEP routine because effectiveness drops if it’s not taken consistently, whether it’s pills or a bimonthly shot.

Anyone who is at risk of contracting HIV (and tested negative for it) should be on a PrEP regimen, whether it’s the injection or the pills. 

If you:

  • Inject drugs, have an injection partner with HIV, or share needles, syringes, or other equipment to inject drugs.
  • Have had anal or vaginal sex in the past 6 months.
    • have a sexual partner with HIV (especially if the partner has an unknown or detectable viral load).
    • have not consistently used a condom.
    • have been diagnosed with a sexually transmitted infection (STI)in the past 6 months.

Then you should be on PrEP.


Can I stop using condoms if I’m on PrEP?

PrEP protects you against HIV but does not protect you against other STIs and does not prevent pregnancy. Condoms can help prevent chlamydia and gonorrhea, which are transmitted through genital fluids, but are less effective at preventing STDs spread through skin-to-skin contact or open sores, like HPV, genital herpes, and syphilis.

Can I Take PrEP Only During Times When I'm at Risk for HIV?

Yes! This is called taking it “on-demand, and if you are interested in this, talk to your clinician about it. A suggested effective approach to on-demand PrEP is the “2-1-1” schedule. 

  • Taking 2 pills 2-24 hours before sex
  • 1 pill 24 hours after your first dose. 
  • 1 pill 24 hours after the second dose. 

The CDC has found that this schedule provides effective protection for men who have sex with men (MSM) who have anal sex without a condom.

How Can I Pay for PrEP? 

We have a whole guide for it! If you’re in western Pennsylvania or Ohio, no insurance is required! You can get started by filling out our online form.  If you’re not from those areas, you can find more information on PrEP and PEP assistance programs by visiting NASTAD’s website.

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