Starting and Stopping PrEP
By Enrique Herrera, Gay City supporter
Our lives change. Sometimes it’s caused by a global pandemic, finding that special partner(s) to spend our lives with, or just wanting to reduce the risk of an HIV infection.
If that’s you. PrEP may be for you.
PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) is a pill HIV-negative individuals take to prevent the contraction of HIV.
Starting PrEP
Congratulations on thinking about ways to reduce your risk for HIV! Our testing advocates can help get you connected to the resources and support you need. Your first PrEP appointment only takes one hour. After that, you will have short checkups with your testing advocate every three months. This allows you to know how PrEP is impacting your life.
Stopping PrEP
If you’re already on PrEP, you can stop PrEP if your life has changed. While some PrEP experts recommend continuing PrEP for a month after your last condomless sex, we recommend speaking with a Gay City tester or your doctor to learn how this will affect you.
Restarting PrEP
It’s totally fine if your life has changed, and you have decided to start taking PrEP again. Two things:
- You’ll want to get an HIV test before restarting. It’s recommended you be screened for HIV to ensure the medication’s effectiveness.
- If you have pills from a previous bottle, make sure they are not expired.
What if I can’t make it in for an appointment?
Sometimes transportation is difficult or staying home is so much easier. No need to worry. Contact your Gay City testing advocate today.
What types of PrEP medications are available at Gay City?
Testing advocates offer clients the opportunity to choose from two PrEP medications: Truvada and Descovy. To learn which medication is right for you, make an appointment.
I’m due for a PrEP refill
With the large supply of pills, sometimes refill times can sneak up on us. In-person or through telemedicine, your testing advocate will be able to help you.
How do I contact a testing advocate?
Contact your Gay City testing advocate today for assistance at testing@gaycity.org or by calling 206–860–6969. If you call outside our operating hours, you will be connected to our automated system. To navigate to the Wellness Center options, select your preferred language, and select extension #2.
