Prevention

Condoms are still the only way to get protection against HIV, STIs & pregnancy all at once. Condoms can be used for vaginal, anal, and oral sex. All condoms in Australia are tested for quality assurance and, when used correctly, rarely break. Click here for more info.  
 

Post Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP) is taking medicine to reduce the risk of becoming infected with HIV, after high risk exposure. It can only be started within 72 hours (3 days) of the risk. 
What is high risk?

• Having condomless anal or vaginal sex with a partner who is high risk for HIV.
• Having condomless vaginal or anal sex or sharing injecting equiprment with a person living with HIV who has a detectable HIV viral load or is not taking HIV antiretroviral therapy.

What can I do?
Contact your local sexual health centre for assessment or attend the emergency department of your local hospital.

 

Pre Exposure Prophylaxis is taking medication on a daily basis to reduce the risk of gettting HIV. PrEP is only recommended for use in people at high & ongoing risk for HIV infection. In Australia this includes:

1. Having condomless anal or vaginal sex with a partner who is at high risk of having HIV.
2. Having condomless vaginal or anal sex or sharing injecting equiprment with a person living with HIV who has a detectable HIV viral load or is not taking antiretroviral therapy.

How effective is PrEP?

• Research studies in different populations around the world have shown that taking PrEP can reduce the risk of getting HIV by at least a 92% & possibly more than 99%. 

Where can I get PrEP?

• General practitioners (GPs) at regular medical centres and doctors at sexual health centres can prescribe PrEP
• PrEP is now on the PBS and costs about $40/month if you have a Medicare card. 
• PrEP can be self-imported from international pharmacies using a local doctor's prescription without Medicare and often at cheaper cost. Find more information at www.pan.org.au