Summer often comes with a change of routine. There are vacations, weekend trips, social events, and sometimes new relationships. It’s also a time when many people start paying more attention to their sexual health and prevention options.
If you’ve been thinking about HIV prevention, this may be a good time to learn more about PrEP.
At Reza Health, with locations in Jacksonville and Ormond Beach, helping patients access HIV prevention services is part of everyday care. Whether you’re hearing about PrEP for the first time or simply want reliable information before making a decision, understanding your options is the first step.
What Is PrEP and How Does It Work?
PrEP stands for pre-exposure prophylaxis. It is a medication used by people who are HIV-negative to help reduce their risk of contracting HIV.
When taken as prescribed, PrEP can lower the risk of HIV transmission through sex by up to 99%. The medication works by building protective levels in the body, making it much harder for HIV to establish an infection after exposure.
One of the biggest misconceptions about PrEP is that it’s only for certain groups of people. In reality, many individuals choose PrEP simply because they want an additional layer of protection and greater peace of mind.
Who Should Consider PrEP?
There is no single type of person who uses PrEP. The decision is personal and depends on your lifestyle, relationships, and level of comfort with risk.
You may want to discuss PrEP with a healthcare provider if you:
- Have new or multiple sexual partners
- Have had unprotected sex
- Have a partner living with HIV
- Have been diagnosed with an STI recently
- Share injection equipment or have a partner who does
- Want extra protection as part of your sexual wellness plan
A conversation with your provider can help determine whether PrEP is a good fit for your situation.
Daily PrEP or Injectable PrEP: Which Option Fits Your Lifestyle?
One reason more people are considering PrEP today is that there is flexibility in how it can be taken. Some people prefer a daily routine, while others would rather not think about medication every day.
Having multiple options allows patients to choose an HIV prevention plan that works with their lifestyle, schedule, and personal preferences.
Daily Oral PrEP
Daily oral PrEP involves taking one pill every day. When used consistently, it remains one of the most effective tools available for HIV prevention.
Many people like this option because it quickly becomes part of their normal routine, similar to taking a daily vitamin or other medication. It can also provide a sense of control, knowing they are actively taking a step each day to protect their health.
Consistency is important with daily PrEP. Taking the medication as prescribed helps maintain the protective levels needed for maximum effectiveness.
Long-Acting Injectable PrEP
For some people, remembering a daily pill can be challenging. Others simply prefer a lower-maintenance option. In those cases, long-acting injectable PrEP may be worth considering.
This option is administered by a healthcare provider approximately every two months and provides ongoing HIV prevention without the need for daily medication. Many patients appreciate the convenience of fewer appointments and fewer reminders throughout the week.
Injectable PrEP can be especially appealing for individuals with busy schedules, frequent travelers, or those who prefer not to keep medication at home.
What Happens During a PrEP Appointment?
Many people assume getting started with PrEP is complicated. In reality, the process is usually straightforward.
At Reza Health, the first visit typically includes:
- Confidential HIV testing
- A review of your medical history
- Routine lab work, including kidney function testing
- A discussion about your risk factors and prevention goals
- Information about medication options and follow-up care
The goal is to make sure PrEP is both safe and appropriate for you while giving you the opportunity to ask questions in a comfortable setting.
Why Regular HIV Testing and STI Screening Still Matter
PrEP is highly effective at preventing HIV, but it does not protect against other sexually transmitted infections.
That’s why routine STI testing remains an important part of sexual wellness.
Depending on your situation, testing may include:
- HIV testing
- Chlamydia screening
- Gonorrhea screening
- Syphilis testing
- Hepatitis B screening
- Hepatitis C screening
At Reza Health, HIV testing in Jacksonville and STI testing can often be completed during the same visit, making it easier to stay on top of your overall health.
Understanding the Difference Between PrEP and PEP
PrEP and PEP are both used for HIV prevention, but they are designed for different situations. Many people hear the terms used interchangeably, which can make things confusing. Understanding when each option is used can help you make informed decisions about your sexual health.
PrEP
PrEP, or pre-exposure prophylaxis, is taken before a possible HIV exposure occurs. It is intended for people who want ongoing protection against HIV as part of their regular healthcare routine.
When taken as prescribed, PrEP can significantly reduce the risk of contracting HIV through sexual contact. It works by building protective levels of medication in the body over time, helping prevent the virus from establishing an infection if exposure happens in the future.
PEP
PEP, or post-exposure prophylaxis, is used after a possible HIV exposure has already occurred. It is considered an emergency prevention option rather than a long-term strategy.
PEP must be started within 72 hours of the exposure to be effective, and the sooner treatment begins, the better. The medication is taken for 28 days and is typically recommended after situations such as unprotected sex, condom failure, or potential exposure through shared needles.
If you think you may have been exposed to HIV, do not wait to see if symptoms develop. Contact a healthcare provider as soon as possible to discuss whether PEP may be appropriate for you.
Why Sexual Health Is About More Than Prevention
Sexual health is not just about medications or testing. It’s also about having access to accurate information, supportive healthcare providers, and preventive care that fits your needs.
At Reza Health, PrEP services are often discussed alongside HIV prevention, STI testing, hepatitis screening, and overall wellness. The goal is to help patients make informed decisions without fear, stigma, or judgment.
Thinking About Starting PrEP?
If you’ve been considering PrEP, the best place to start is with a conversation.
Learning about HIV prevention options now can help you make informed decisions throughout the year, whether you’re traveling, starting a new relationship, or simply taking a more proactive approach to your health.
Reza Health serves patients throughout Jacksonville and Ormond Beach and provides confidential HIV testing, STI testing, PrEP consultations, hepatitis screening, and preventive healthcare services.
Call 888-831-2949 or schedule an appointment to learn more about available HIV prevention options.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
When taken as prescribed, PrEP can reduce the risk of HIV transmission through sex by up to 99%.
Yes. PrEP helps prevent HIV but does not protect against other sexually transmitted infections.
Both options are highly effective when used as directed. Your provider can help determine which option may work best for you.
Yes. You do not need to wait for a specific time to begin PrEP.
Yes. HIV testing is required before starting PrEP to confirm that you are HIV-negative.