Pre-exposure prophylaxis

PrEP stands for pre-exposure prophylaxis and, in addition to condoms and protection through therapy, is an effective way to protect against HIV infection when used correctly.

What is PrEP?

PrEP is the regular intake of a drug used in HIV therapy to prevent risk contact. It provides protection against HIV, but not against other sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Condoms can provide additional protection against STI. PrEP should be used regularly and after consultation with a physician.

PrEP, condoms and protection through therapy reliably protect you from HIV and can be combined with each other.

What do I need to consider before deciding to take PrEP?

In theory, any sexually active person can consider PrEP as a method of protection against HIV. In a consultation, it can be clarified whether this method is right for you and what requirements you must meet so that it works and you tolerate it. Hereyou can find a counseling center in Berlin that can help you.

Furthermore, some medical examinations must take place. Checks are made to see if your body can tolerate PrEP, if you may already be infected with HIV, or if there are other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) that need to be treated. You can have some of these examinations done at these counseling centers or by these doctors.

Once the necessary preliminary examinations have been completed and you have decided to take PrEP, you can have the doctor prescribe it for you.

Where can I get PrEP?

• Since September 01, 2019, PrEP is a health insurance benefit. The consultation and the examinations are undertaken by contracted physicians who have an authorization from the responsible Association of Statutory Health Insurance Physicians, and PrEP is prescribed.
• Holders of a valid “Berlin Pass” and without health insurance can receive PrEP, the necessary preliminary and accompanying examinations, and advice on adherence to regular intake free of charge at Checkpoint BLN.
• Some users obtain their PrEP medication via the Internet, although this option has probably declined considerably since Brexit and the introduction of PrEP in Germany.

Choose what suits you best. More info here.

You can get information about the risks of infection with the different sex practices here.

Get tested for HIV, Hep C and other sexually transmitted infections (STI) at least once a year! Swabs on the tail, ass and throat give security to find everything that does not belong there! Vaccinations against hepatitis A and B are possible.

All important information about PrEP and the most important answers to your questions can be found here.