Using PrEP Is Not Shameful: Who Should Use PrEP and Why Society Needs a New Perspective
- eddhealthth
- Jan 16
- 4 min read
Updated: 1 day ago
Who Is PrEP Really For in Real Life — Not Just “High-Risk Groups” in Textbooks
PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis) is designed for people who are HIV-negative but may be exposed to HIV due to real-life situations and lifestyles — not just those traditionally labeled as “high risk.”
PrEP may be suitable for people who:
Have multiple sexual partners or frequently change partners
Have condomless sex or experience condom failure
Have a partner living with HIV
Work in sex services
Use injectable drugs
Are planning pregnancy while having potential HIV exposure
PrEP is not limited to LGBTQ+ communities. It is a preventive option for anyone whose lifestyle or circumstances increase the likelihood of HIV exposure. This is about real-world risk, not textbook definitions.
Who Should Consider Using PrEP in Real Life?
People with Multiple or Changing Sexual Partners
The more partners you have, the higher the chance of encountering someone living with HIV — even unknowingly.
People Who Have Condomless Sex
This includes sex with partners whose HIV status is unknown or with partners living with HIV (even if they are on treatment).
People with Recurrent Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)
Frequent infections such as gonorrhea or syphilis can indicate ongoing exposure risk and a higher chance of HIV transmission.
People New to Sexual Activity or with Inconsistent Protection
Not using condoms consistently remains one of the main risk factors for HIV infection.
PrEP Is Not a Replacement for Condoms
PrEP can reduce the risk of HIV infection by nearly 100% when taken consistently, but it does not protect against other STIs such as syphilis or gonorrhea.
Why Condoms Are Still Important
Condoms protect against other STIs and unintended pregnancy
PrEP protects only against HIV
Medical Supervision Is Essential
Before starting PrEP, blood tests are required to check HIV status, kidney function, and liver health. Ongoing monitoring ensures long-term safety.
PrEP acts as an additional protective layer for people whose lifestyle places them at ongoing risk — not just for those described in medical textbooks. Anyone who feels “not fully safe” during sexual activity and is HIV-negative should consult a healthcare provider about PrEP.
PrEP Must Be Taken Daily — What If You Forget a Dose?
If you forget to take PrEP:
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember, unless it is close to the next scheduled dose (more than 12 hours late)
If it is close to the next dose, skip the missed pill and continue as normal
Never take two pills at once
Key Reminder
Consistency is critical. Taking PrEP at the same time every day helps maintain protective drug levels. If you forget doses often, speak with a healthcare provider or use reminders such as alarms or apps.
PrEP and Having a Partner: Is It Still Necessary?
Yes — PrEP may still be beneficial if:
You are unsure of your partner’s HIV status
You have condomless sex
There are multiple or changing partners
PrEP provides additional protection against HIV, though it does not protect against other STIs.
U=U (Undetectable = Untransmittable)
When a partner living with HIV maintains an undetectable viral load, they do not transmit the virus sexually. However, PrEP can still offer extra reassurance and peace of mind, especially in serodiscordant relationships.
Freedom and Confidence
PrEP helps many people feel safer and more confident in their sexual lives without constant anxiety about HIV.
Who Should Not Use PrEP? When to Consult a Doctor First
People Who Should Not Use PrEP
People already living with HIV
Children under 12 years old
Individuals with severe kidney or liver impairment
People allergic to PrEP medications (e.g., Tenofovir or Emtricitabine)
People Who Should Consult a Doctor Before Starting PrEP
Those who may have been recently exposed to HIV (HIV testing is required first)
People with chronic medical conditions, especially kidney or liver disease
Individuals with hepatitis B infection
Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals
People with compromised immune systems
A healthcare provider can assess risks and determine the safest prevention strategy.
Why Using PrEP Should Not Be Considered Shameful
Using PrEP reflects responsibility, awareness, and proactive healthcare — not risky behavior.
PrEP Is Preventive Care
Preventing HIV before infection occurs is more effective than treating it afterward.
Responsibility to Yourself and Others
PrEP shows care for your own health and for the well-being of partners.
High Effectiveness
When taken correctly, PrEP is one of the most effective HIV prevention tools available.
Not About Sexual Orientation
PrEP is for anyone at risk — regardless of gender identity or sexual orientation.
Multiple Options Available
Daily oral PrEP
On-demand PrEP
Long-acting injectable PrEP
These options allow individuals to choose what best fits their lifestyle.
Public Health Impact
Wider PrEP use reduces new HIV infections and strengthens public health outcomes.
Using PrEP Does Not Mean You Have Risky Sexual Behavior
Choosing PrEP does not automatically indicate irresponsible behavior. It is a conscious decision to use a highly effective HIV prevention tool.
PrEP protects against HIV only — not other STIs or pregnancy — which is why condoms remain essential for comprehensive protection.
A New Perspective Society Needs to Understand
Reduce Stigma
PrEP is about health and prevention, not moral judgment.
Provide Accurate Information
Clear communication about what PrEP does — and does not — protect against is essential.
Support Access Without Discrimination
Healthcare systems should be welcoming, stigma-free, and accessible to everyone who needs PrEP.
Why Do Celebrities Talk About PrEP — and Why It Matters
Public figures like Cardi B speak openly about PrEP to challenge stigma and raise awareness beyond stereotypes.
Why Cardi B Talks About PrEP
She emphasizes that HIV is not limited to gay men — women are also at risk
She uses simple, relatable language to normalize prevention
She challenges fears and misconceptions about side effects
Why Open Conversations Matter
Reduce stigma and shame
Encourage more people to seek HIV prevention
Increase PrEP uptake
Promote accurate health information, especially among younger audiences
Open discussions help create a society where HIV prevention is normal, accessible, and stigma-free.
Comments