Starting 2022 With Your Health In Mind
February 15, 2022Recognizing Members Of Our Community For Black History Month
February 28, 2022We make it easy to find respectful, judgment-free HIV prevention in Orlando. If you’ve had some questions about the best ways to protect yourself and your partner(s), we have the answers.
HIV (human immunodeficiency virus), is a virus that’s transmitted through contact with blood or sexual fluids like vaginal fluids or semen. This usually happens during vaginal or anal sex, but there are other ways that an individual can transmit it, too. The only way to be totally certain that you’re avoiding HIV is to not have vaginal or anal sex, but lots of people really enjoy sex! There are other effective ways to protect yourself from HIV, including using condoms, not sharing needles, and talking to your doctor about PrEP.
Harmony Healthcare Orlando is on a mission to give everyone access to HIV prevention in Orlando, and part of prevention is knowing the facts.
Is PrEP Safer Than Condoms? And Other FAQs About HIV Prevention Methods
What is PrEP?
PrEP offers protection to people who do not have HIV and may be exposed to HIV through sex or other activities. If you’re taking PrEP and exposed to HIV, these medicines can work to keep the virus from establishing an infection.
PrEP Vs. Condoms: Which Is Better?
PrEP is the best HIV prevention tool available. When taken as directed by your doctor or medical provider, PrEP prevents HIV with over 99% effectiveness.
Using condoms for HIV prevention is smart too! You can use them during higher-risk sexual activities like anal or vaginal sex, and can also be used when sharing toys or for oral sex. You can stop by one of our locations to pick up some free condoms or call us to learn about additional local resources for free condoms.
If you’re trying to choose between using condoms or PrEP, the real answer is to use both. PrEP protects against HIV, while condoms can protect against HIV and other STIs (sexually transmitted infections) such as gonorrhea or chlamydia.
I’m HIV Positive, How Can I Make Sure I Don’t Give HIV To My Partner(s)?
If you’re living with HIV, you should know that you can have normal and healthy relationships – and that includes having sex if you want to. There are lots of ways to avoid giving HIV to others, including the following:
- Don’t share needles for piercings, tattoos, or injection drugs
- Ask your partner(s) to talk to their doctor about PrEP
- Test for other STIs regularly
- Always use condoms
- Treat for HIV and take your HIV medicine consistently
Our Commitment to Judgment-Free HIV Prevention and Treatment in Orlando
If you’ve tested positive for HIV, it’s important that you have a medical team that supports you in all aspects of your life. Your medical team can help you get the right treatment in a warm, welcoming environment.
At Harmony Healthcare Orlando, we focus on helping people to access HIV prevention in Orlando, with absolutely no judgment.
Need PrEP? Need to Get Tested? We’re Here for You
We are committed to providing our patients with the resources that they need to take charge of their health, regardless of their insurance status or ability to pay. All of our services are centered around your needs, including Orlando HIV testing! Reach out to us today to schedule an appointment!