What is PEP?
PEP (sometimes called PEPSE) is a combination of HIV drugs that can stop the virus taking hold. It can be used after the event if you've been at risk of HIV transmission.
To work, PEP must be taken within 72 hours (three days), and should be taken as soon as possible, ideally within 24 hours.
PEP is not a ‘morning after pill’ for HIV, and it’s not guaranteed to work. It’s meant as an emergency measure to be used as a last resort, such as if a condom fails during sex. Taking PEP will not protect you from other sexually transmitted infections or unplanned pregnancy.
- Post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) means taking HIV medicines within 72 hours (3 days) after a possible exposure to HIV to prevent HIV.
- PEP should be used only in emergency situations. It is not meant for regular use by people who may be exposed to HIV frequently. PEP is not a substitute for regular use of other HIV prevention methods such as pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP)
- PEP must be started within 72 hours after a possible exposure to HIV. The sooner PEP is started after a possible HIV exposure, the better. Every hour counts.
- If you are prescribed PEP, you will take HIV medicines every day for 28 days.
- PEP is effective in preventing HIV when it is taken correctly.
All About PrEP & PEP
About Us
This study is being conducted through a partnership between Emory University, University of Mississippi Medical Center (UMMC), and the George Washington University. HealthMindr is funded by a grant from the National Institute on Drug Abuse. The HealthMindr website is being hosted through Emory University. PRISM Health (Programs, Research, & Innovation in Sexual Minority Health) is a research group based within the Rollins School of Public Health at Emory University in Atlanta, GA. We strive to reduce social and health disparities through the advancement of sexual health.
STI & HIV Information
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and HIV are significant public health concerns globally. STIs are infections that spread through sexual activity, including vaginal, anal, and oral sex. Common STIs include chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, herpes, and human papillomavirus (HPV). These infections can have serious health consequences if left untreated, including infertility, pelvic inflammatory disease, and certain cancers.
Questions to Ask
Doctors’ visits, health insurance, lab tests…. It all can get confusing! We want to make it easier. To assist in preparing for your doctor’s appointment and understanding your health insurance to get PrEP, we have compiled a list of questions you can ask your doctor and health insurance provider. Knowing the details is important! Click the tabs below to explore this module.
Products to order
Through the HealthMindr website, you can order condoms, lubricant, and STI or HIV test kits. Ordering through this platform is secure and confidential. Select the item you would like to order or know more about, and you will be taken to the ordering screen!
Quizzes
The HealthMindr website includes quizzes! They are always available and will display different results based on your responses. Topics include screenings for PEP, PrEP, testing preferences, and more. Check them out below!
Payment Assistance Test by Rahul
Coming Soon is a test text for this quiz
Is PrEP an option for me?
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Help me choose a Test
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Is PEP an Option For Me?
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Substance Use
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