What is PrEP

PrEP is short for Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis – this means it is taken BEFORE exposure to HIV.  

  • It’s like “Birth Control for HIV” – meant to prevent the spread of HIV with daily use

  • Women have two PrEP options:

    • Truvada™ a daily pill 

    • Apretude™ an injectable taken every 2 months

  • Both PrEP options for women are safe and highly effective when taken as prescribed (99% effective after 21 days for vaginal sex and 7 days for anal sex) 

Women should consider using PrEP:

  • If you have sex with different partners and you want extra protection for yourself

  • If you don’t always use condoms and are unsure of your partner’s HIV status

  • If you want to have sex with your partner who is living with HIV

  • If you want to have a baby with your partner who is living with HIV

  • If you inject drugs/share needles and want to minimize risk to yourself and others

  • If YOU decided using PrEP is right for your own self-protection - PERIOD

Also consider PrEP if:

  • If your partner injects drugs/shares needles with others

  • If your male partner has unprotected sex with others 

  • If you or your male partner has had an STI in the last 12 months

  • If you have at times had sex for essential needs (food, shelter, drugs, other support)

Cost of PrEP

  • Most medical insurance providers cover the cost of PrEP

  • For uninsured individuals, UofL 550 Clinic has financial assistance programs to aid with medication, labs, medical care, and other support service costs to help you remain on PrEP with little to no out-of-pocket cost. 

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