Looking for peace of mind?
You are out there making it happen for yourself every single day. We don’t want anything to stop you along the way — including your sexual health. PrEP is a once daily medication or injection every two months that can reduce your risk of getting HIV.
Taking PrEP is a simple and easy step you can take towards a healthy sex life. It’s a key part of a wide range of practices, which include PEP, condoms, and more to have the kind of sex you want. Stop by any of our sexual health walk-in clinics or make an appointment at one of our clinics across Chicago today to talk to a provider about PrEP.
Getting Ready for PrEP
PrEP is a once-daily pill or injection every two months that greatly reduces your risk of HIV infection. There are different drug options for PrEP. Your healthcare provider will help you choose the right one for you.
A monthly medication prescription is necessary for PrEP. PrEP medications and the necessary follow-up appointments are covered by most insurances.
Most people who take PrEP do not report any side effects. For those who do, the most common side effects are nausea, upset stomach, headaches and fatigue. These symptoms often go away after a few weeks of taking PrEP.
If these side effects bother you, speak to your healthcare provider. Your provider can talk to you about ways to treat these side effects.
Your provider will monitor your lab results for other PrEP-related side effects.
PrEP does not interfere with hormonal birth control, including emergency contraception. PrEP may be an option if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or trying to get pregnant. Ask your provider for more information.
PrEP does not interfere with hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and is an effective prevention option for transgender and gender diverse people.
PrEP works best if you take it at the same time every day. If you forget to take your pill, take it as soon as you remember.
If you realize you forgot to take a pill and it is almost time for your next pill, just take one pill and resume your normal schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.
If you keep missing scheduled doses, ask your provider about ways to stay on track. Injectable PrEP may be a helpful alternative for you if you have difficulty keeping up with a daily medication.
PrEP Tip: Carry a pill with you
If you have questions or want more information, call 773.388.1600 and ask to speak to a PrEP Navigator.