HIV preexposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is the process when a person without HIV takes antiretroviral medications to prevent the acquisition of HIV. The goal of HIV PrEP is to prevent new HIV infections. Among people who take HIV PrEP medications as prescribed, the medications are more than 90% effective for preventing sexual acquisition of HIV and approximately 70% effective in preventing HIV acquisition among people who inject drugs.

Individuals exposed to a STI from a sexual partner should be seen by a medical provider for testing and treatment. Many patients are able to receive treatment for certain STIs, such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis, before their lab results return. All recent sexual partners should be encouraged to get tested as well, if applicable.

DoxyPEP (Doxycycline Post-Exposure Prophylaxis) is a medication taken after sex to prevent sexual transmission of bacterial STIs, such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, and mycoplasma genitalium. DoxyPEP, which is currently only recommended for men who have sex with men (MSM) and transgender women, must be taken within 72 hours of a sexual encounter to be effective.

Call the SHC Hotline Number! You can reach us 803-859-9252 and you will be scheduled for an appointment to our clinical provider. Walk-ins are also welcome, but call-ins are preferred.

If you have been exposed to HIV or the HIV status of a sexual partner is unknown, you may be eligible for PEP (Post-Exposure Prophylaxis). PEP is a medication that reduces the risk of infection by up to 90% for individuals exposed to HIV. PEP, which is taken daily for 28 days, must be initiated within 72 hours of the exposure. Patients who complete PEP are encouraged to consider PrEP.