Getting Ready For PrEP

There has been a major advancement in the world of sexual health...but do you know about it?

Sexually transmitted infections have always been a part of human sexuality. The histories of conditions such as gonorrhea, syphilis, herpes and others are long, and, well, uncomfortable. Because our physical connection during most types of sex, all squishy, wet and intimate is the perfect breeding ground of bacteria and other things to be transmitted. Just as with getting a cold or the flu, it shouldn’t be a surprise that some folks to contract STIs.

For the most part, most sexually transmitted infections have been treated with antibiotics. Some, such as herpes will live in your system and become active at certain times throughout your life. Unless left untreated, STIs were generally considered nothing more than a nuisance at worst and entirely treatable at best.

And then came HIV

HIV/AIDS rocked an entire generation and led to many deaths. It is still a significant health crisis, particularly in areas of the world that are impoverished and condoms aren’t used, as well as among people who are devoutly religious. Condoms have been proven to be an effective, though not perfect, barrier method prevention against spreading HIV. But we’ve always hoped for better.

Now there is better...and the future is looking bright. PrEP could be revolutionary.

What is PrEP?

PrEP stands for Pre-exposure prophylaxis. It is, essentially, a medication taken daily if you are concerned that you will be participating in sex wherein there is a high risk of HIV transmission. PrEP lowers the risk of transmission from sexual contact by more than 90% (and by 70% from intravenous drug use). Under the brand name Truvada, PrEP is predominantly being prescribed to HIV-negative partners of folks who are HIV-positive. This way, couples can have barrier-free sex and not pass the virus along.

You would think that with such a significant medication that there would potential side effects. However, PrEP does have have major side effects that have been discovered. Some people experience nausea, but that even subsides over time. If you do encounter side effects from taking PrEP, let your doctor know.

The success of PrEP has been significant so far, but it isn’t being widely touted. Not as much as you think it would be given its life-altering potential. It isn’t flying under the radar either, PrEP is fully approved in the United States and has many doctors’ seal of approval.

What is holding PrEP back?

So, what could be hold PrEP back from being acknowledged and readily known about? It is probably the stigma that still surrounds HIV and AIDS. People are still very afraid of this infection and conversation on it can still be hush hush. And some of those who oppose a medication like PrEP are very vocal in their belief that it will make people be more promiscuous. Of course, that suggestions is ludicrous.

PrEP could be a lifesaver, not just for folks in developed countries but specifically for people in developing nations where HIV is practically a way of life. Making PrEP available could make a big difference in lowering transmission rates in more disadvantaged parts of the world.

If you are interested in exploring how PrEP could work for you, consult your physician.