Understanding PrEP: Your Guide to HIV Prevention Medication
Taking care of your sexual health is a top priority. At OpSam Health, we believe everyone deserves access to the best care possible, so we’re proud to offer resources to help stop the spread of HIV. One of the most powerful tools we provide in San Diego is HIV prevention medication, which is designed to stop the virus before it can make you sick. We’ll help you access this life-saving treatment easily and without judgment.
What Is PrEP for HIV?
PrEP stands for Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis. It’s a prescription medication for people who don’t have HIV and want to protect themselves from getting it. Think of it like a daily vitamin for your sexual health. When you take this HIV prevention medication every day, it builds up in your system. If you’re exposed to the virus through sex or drug use, the medicine works like a shield and stops it from spreading throughout your body. It’s important to remember that PrEP is not a cure for HIV, but a way to prevent it.
Who Needs HIV Prevention Medication?
PrEP is for anyone who is at a higher risk of coming into contact with HIV. It’s a good option if you have a partner who’s HIV-positive. It’s also very helpful if you have multiple partners, do not always use condoms, or have been diagnosed with a sexually transmitted disease in the past six months. Talking to a healthcare provider at OpSam Health can help you determine if you need PrEP for HIV.
Benefits of PrEP for HIV
The most significant benefit of PrEP is the protection it offers. When taken as prescribed, PrEP is highly effective in preventing HIV transmission. Studies show it reduces the risk of getting HIV from sex by about 99%. It also lowers the risk of contracting the virus from intravenous drug use by at least 74% according to the CDC.
Using HIV prevention medication gives you peace of mind and control over your body. However, PrEP does not protect against other sexually transmitted infections, so using condoms is still important for full protection.
Take Control of Your Health at OpSam
OpSam Health is here in San Diego to support you with testing, education, and access to medication. If you think PrEP might be right for you, contact us today to schedule an appointment.
