PrEP doesn’t protect against other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) or prevent pregnancy. It’s important to combine PrEP with regular STI testing and other safer sex practices.
How do we know PrEP works?
Studies show PrEP works well when taken daily.
Most people who got HIV while on PrEP weren’t taking it regularly.
To stay protected, you must take PrEP every day. It only works if the medication is always present in your body.
How long does it take for PrEP to start working?
It depends on the type of sex or exposure:
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For anal sex: 7 days of daily PrEP use
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For vaginal or front hole sex, or injection drug use: 21 days of daily use
Once these timelines are met, PrEP offers strong protection.
Is PrEP safe? What about side effects?
Yes, PrEP is safe. It’s made from medications that have been used in HIV treatment since 2004.
Most people on PrEP have no side effects. If side effects do happen, they are usually mild—like nausea, tiredness, or headaches—and often go away within a few weeks.
Rarely, PrEP can affect your kidneys or bones. That’s why regular check-ups every three months are important while you’re taking it.
Is PrEP right for me?
PrEP is one option for HIV prevention, but it’s not for everyone.
You might be a good candidate for PrEP if you belong to any of these groups:
Gay, bisexual, or other men who have sex with men, and:
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Have had STIs like rectal gonorrhoea or syphilis
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Have used PEP (post-exposure prophylaxis) more than once
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Have a partner living with HIV who is not undetectable
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Have a partner whose HIV status is unknown
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Score high on an HIV risk tool
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Have used methamphetamines in the past 6 months
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Inject drugs and share needles
Trans women who have condomless anal sex and:
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Have had STIs like rectal gonorrhoea or syphilis
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Have used PEP more than once
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Have a partner with HIV who is not undetectable
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Score high on an HIV risk tool
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Have used methamphetamines in the past 6 months
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Inject drugs and share needles
Heterosexual men or women who:
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Have condomless sex with a partner living with HIV who is not undetectable
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Have sex with partners whose HIV status is unknown
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Have a partner who injects drugs
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Have had infectious syphilis
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Have used PEP more than once
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Inject drugs and share needles
Use the private online assessment tool to see if PrEP is a good fit for you.
Interested in PrEP?
Want to know if PrEP is right for you?
Answer a few quick questions to learn more about your risk level and whether PrEP might be a good option.
Then, speak to a health care provider to explore next steps and other ways to protect your health.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does PrEP work for women?
Yes. PrEP is effective for women who are at risk of HIV.
Can I take PrEP with birth control?
Yes. PrEP is safe to use with all birth control methods, including pills, IUDs, and condoms. However, PrEP does not prevent pregnancy.
Is PrEP safe during pregnancy?
Yes. It’s safe to take PrEP while pregnant or trying to conceive. While research during pregnancy and breast/chest feeding is limited, studies show it’s safe to use the same drugs for HIV treatment. Speak with your doctor if you have questions.
Can trans people use PrEP?
Absolutely. PrEP is safe for trans and gender-diverse people, including those on hormone therapy.
For those who’ve had gender-affirming surgery, it’s recommended to take PrEP for 21 days before it becomes effective for front hole sex.
Can I take PrEP if I use street drugs?
Yes. PrEP is safe to take even if you use recreational drugs. It’s especially helpful if you sometimes share needles.
Do I still need to use condoms if I’m on PrEP?
PrEP protects you from HIV, but not from other STIs or pregnancy. Using condoms along with PrEP offers more complete protection.
