PrEP (“Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis”)
PrEP (or HIV-PrEP) stands for “Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis” and is a preventative measure against a possible contact with HIV. With this protection method, an HIV-negative person takes a certain HIV medication to protect themselves against becoming infected with HIV.
When it is properly used, PrEP protects as well as condoms/femidoms (female condoms) or Treatment as Prevention against HIV.
With this method, it is important to have the support of a doctor and to be tested for HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases on a regular basis.
PrEP does not provide protection against other sexually transmitted diseases.
In Germany PrEP is paid for by compulsorily health insurance companies.
Information on PrEP is provided by counseling services for gay people and “checkpoints”, prevention projects, HIV/AIDS service organizations and some specialised HIV doctors' practices.
