What is PrEP?
Pre-exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) are HIV drugs taken by an HIV negative person, to reduce the risk of acquiring HIV through unprotected sex.
How does PrEP work?
The drugs can block the virus from infecting you if it gets inside your body via unprotected sex.
Do I need PrEP?
PrEP is recommended to people who are at high risk of HIV. Recent studies have shown that taking PrEP can significantly reduce the risk of becoming HIV positive. Further research is currently being undertaken to measure how many people at high risk of acquiring HIV will take up the offer of PrEP. This research project is known as the PrEP Impact trial and can be accessed via sexual health clinics. To help you assess your own risk, take this online assessment PrEP Tool – It Starts With Me.
If you think you may be eligible for PrEP or are already taking PrEP and need to have regular monitoring tests and STI screening please visit the Beckenham Beacon sexual health clinic for further advice and support. The clinical staff will discuss your needs in more detail and complete any required screening tests before commencing the treatment. I want PrEP now is also an excellent source of advice, information and support.
Will I have to pay?
PrEP is now available free on the NHS from sexual health clinics.
I'm already taking PrEP
That’s great news. If you’ve been getting this from a different clinic or buying it on line, then the good news is that you can continue your treatment locally at Beckenham Beacon.
Does PrEP protect against all STIs?
The simple answer is no – only reliable use of condoms can do this. Find out if you're eligible for free condoms via one of our schemes in Bromley.