What is PrEP and how does it work?

PrEP (short for HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis) is a preventive tablet that provides reliable protection against HIV infection, provided it is taken under medical supervision. People who use PrEP do not have to worry about their partner's HIV status during sex. PrEP, just like condoms, is considered a form of safer sex.

However, PrEP does not protect against other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) such as chlamydia, gonorrhea or syphilis. You can be vaccinated against certain infections such as hepatitis A, B or HPV. For all other STIs, regular testing is the best way to detect infections early, even if there are no symptoms.

HIV is transmitted via mucous membranes, for example in the anal, vaginal or penile area. The oral mucosa, on the other hand, has natural protective mechanisms, so the risk of HIV during oral sex is extremely low. Protection with PrEP or condoms is important during vaginal or anal sex.

For PrEP to provide reliable protection, you must start it in good time before sex and continue to take it long enough after the last risk contact. If you have more general questions about PrEP or how to use it, you can find more information at: https://www.swissprepared.ch

You can also find more useful information at: https://aids.ch/safer-sex/schuetzen/hiv-prep/