Healthy Habits to Practice While Using PrEP
Test Negative
PrEP is only intended for people who don’t have HIV. Be sure you have a negative test before starting it, and retest every three months while you’re taking the oral pill, or every 8 weeks if you take the injection.
Be Consistent
PrEP is much less effective when it isn't taken as your doctor prescribes. Use tools to help you stay on track: Set an alarm or create some sort of system that helps you remember to take it on time.
Continue Being Safe
PrEP reduces the risk of getting HIV from sex by about 99% when you take it correctly, but it’s not foolproof. It also doesn’t protect you from other STIs or infections. Use condoms to safeguard your health during sex.
Know the Side Effects
Most people tolerate PrEP well, but you could have side effects like diarrhea, nausea, headache, fatigue, and stomach pain. Talk to your doctor if you have severe bouts of any of these, or they don’t go away over time.
Check Your Insurance
Most insurance plans and state Medicaid programs cover PrEP. The Affordable Care Act requires it to be free under most insurance plans, which means the medication and the clinic visits you need for it should be covered as well.
Talk Openly
When you don’t share important information with your sexual partners, it can actually increase your risk of HIV. Be honest about your sexual habits, how often you test, and what you’re comfortable with, and ask the same questions of them.
Learn About PrEP’s Effectiveness
Depending on the type of sex you are having, PrEP can take anywhere from 7 to 21 days to reach its maximum protection against HIV.
Know Which PrEP is Best
PrEP comes in pills you take by mouth or by injection. It can be daily, on demand, or long-acting. Your doctor will help you choose the best form of PrEP for you.
Track Your Status
Regular testing is important, not only for your health, but because taking PrEP while you’re HIV positive can make your body resistant to some HIV medications. This makes your HIV harder to treat.
Keep it Up
Don’t stop taking PrEP without talking to your doctor first. You may need to stop because of reactions, side effects, or changes in your life that have drastically lowered your risk of getting HIV. Your doctor can come up with an alternate HIV prevention method that works for you.
