PrEP

We are now commissioned to provide PrEP, free of charge to all users who meet the eligibility criteria.

PrEP or pre-exposure prophylaxis involves HIV negative people taking HIV medication as a method of helping to prevent HIV infection. Recent research has shown that if taken correctly,  this medication is highly effective at preventing HIV infection.

PrEP does not protect against any other STI’s, only HIV. You will need to take other precautions in addition to PrEP to protect yourself from all other STI’s. We recommend regular STI testing if you are on PrEP. You should have a HIV test every 3 months.

Useful links

PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) | Terrence Higgins Trust (tht.org.uk)

PrEP is a drug that can be taken by HIV negative people to prevent HIV. You can take PrEP if you are HIV negative, but are at high risk of catching HIV. PrEP is  highly effective if taken correctly.

What does the name PrEP mean?

  • ‘Pre’ is something you do before a risk of exposure (in this case to HIV)
  • ‘Prophylaxis’ is a treatment or action you can take to help prevent disease

PrEP is different from PEP, for more information on PEP, please click here.

PrEP and STI's

PrEP will only protect you from HIV. Using condoms will reduce your risk of STI’s such as Syphilis, Chlamydia  and Gonorrhoea. We also advise that you seek regular testing. Your sexual health clinics can offer vaccinations for Hepatitis A & B and HPV.

The benefits of taking PrEP

PrEP is taken to protect you from HIV. If taken correctly, it means that you don’t need to worry about the HIV status of your partner.

Where to get PrEP?

PrEP is available free of charge on the NHS in England and is provided free of charge by sexual health clinics. Please contact your local clinic to arrange an appointment on 01522 309309 Option 2