Our healthcare team makes seeking Kissimmee HIV prevention info easy. Check out the common questions we hear about PrEP.
Medical breakthroughs give us the opportunity to protect ourselves from sexually-transmitted infections like HIV. If you’re looking to protect yourself from HIV, we can help. Our Kissimmee HIV prevention clinic makes PrEP and other healthcare services accessible to everyone!
What Is PrEP?
PrEP stands for pre-exposure prophylaxis. It’s a medication you take to stop HIV from settling in your body if you’re sexually active with an HIV-positive partner. Think of PrEP as a way to prep and keep your body healthy.
How Do I Know If I Need To Take PrEP?
It’s important to know if you’re at a higher risk of HIV to determine if PrEP suits you. If any of these apply to you, it’s worth discussing PrEP with your healthcare provider:
- You face a high risk of exposure but aren’t HIV positive.
- You’ve had sexual contact with someone who has HIV.
- You’re sexually active with a partner whose HIV status is unknown.
- You engage with multiple sexual partners.
- You use injectable drugs.
While these factors don’t guarantee HIV contraction without PrEP, they heighten the risk. Talking with your doctor about PrEP as part of your Kissimmee HIV prevention plan is a smart step.
How Effective Is PreP?
When taken as prescribed, PrEP can reduce the risk of getting HIV from sex by about 99%. It also reduces the risk of getting HIV from injection drug use by about 74%.
Do I Need A Prescription For PrEP?
If you’re looking for Kissimmee HIV prevention by using PrEP, you do need a prescription from a doctor. The good news is we have you covered at our Harmony Healthcare Orlando Kissimmee location. Our healthcare providers can prescribe PrEP for you if that’s what you need.
How Often Do I Take PrEP?
Always follow your doctor’s instructions, but typically PrEP medication is taken once a day. PrEP can be taken indefinitely if that is what you and your doctor decide is best for you.
How Much Does PrEP Cost?
We often get asked this question, and we understand that cost is a common concern that holds people back from inquiring about necessary medications. If you have private medical insurance, PrEP is generally covered, including deductibles and copays. Check in with your insurance provider for specifics.
For those without private health insurance, Medicaid and Medicare are alternative options. These usually involve minimal copays for prescriptions. We’re here to assist in finding the best way for you to access the medication you require.
Additionally, at Harmony Healthcare Orlando, we provide services and treatment at no cost, irrespective of your insurance status or financial capability. We strongly believe in making healthcare accessible to everyone.
Are There Side Effects When Taking PrEP?
Like many medications, you can experience side effects when taking PrEP. Side effects are usually mild and generally go away over time. Here are the most common:
- Headache
- Vomiting
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea
- Dizziness
- Rash
- Fatigue
- Stomach problems
If any side effects linger and become difficult to manage, contact your healthcare provider.
Are There Long-Term Risks To Taking PrEP?
Long-term side effects from PrEP are not common but you’ll need to talk to your doctor about any pre-existing conditions you have that could affect your health when taking any new medication. Taking PrEP for an extended period could affect your bone density, which is reversible. It can also affect your liver and kidney health.
Let Harmony Healthcare Orlando Be Your PrEP Partner
We know that it can be difficult to talk to someone about your health. But we are here for you and want to answer all of your questions so that you are comfortable with your treatment decisions. Contact us today to discuss your Kissimmee HIV prevention options or if you have any other questions about your health.
