Let’s Talk about PrEP-Your Guide to HIV Prevention

What is PrEP?

PrEP (Pre-exposure Prophylaxis) is an antiretroviral medication taken by Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)-negative individuals before engaging in activities that may expose them to HIV. It prevents HIV by stopping the virus from replicating.

Why PrEP is Essential for Bhutan

PrEP helps bridge the gap in HIV testing and treatment, especially for key populations facing barriers due to stigma or discrimination. Stigma often limits access to HIV services, but as a user-initiated method, PrEP offers a private and empowering way for individuals to protect their health.

Expanding PrEP can improve services for other sexually transmitted infections (STIs), like asymptomatic STI testing and treatment. 

Who Should Consider PrEP?

PrEP is recommended for:

Sexually active adults and adolescents who:

Have an HIV-positive partner.

Engage in inconsistent or condomless sex with multiple partners.

Have had an STI in the past six months.

People who inject drugs (PWID) sharing equipment or with an HIV-positive injecting partner.

People using stimulant drugs during or before sexual activity.

Benefits of PrEP

User-Controlled Protection: Unlike condoms, PrEP does not require partner consent, empowering users to control their sexual health.

Protection in Various Scenarios: PrEP is beneficial in relationships where:

Condom use is inconsistent.

A partner’s HIV status is unknown.

The partner has multiple partners or a recent STI.

There is a risk of violence, age gaps, or substance use.

How Does PrEP Work?

Daily PrEP: Taking one pill daily is the most effective method for preventing HIV.

Event-Based (On-Demand) PrEP: For certain individuals, PrEP can be taken only around high-risk events.

Effectiveness: PrEP is highly effective when taken as prescribed and consistently. 

Starting PrEP: The Process

Consultation: Risk assessment and PrEP counselling.

HIV Testing: Initial and routine HIV testing.

Additional Tests: Blood tests, including for liver and kidney function, STI testing.

Important: PrEP users must test HIV-negative and have no signs of acute HIV infection (symptoms may include fever, fatigue, and enlarged lymph nodes).

Side Effects and Safety

Common Side Effects: Minor, usually temporary (e.g., nausea, diarrhea, headache).

Serious but Rare Effects: Slight bone density loss, reversible kidney changes in some cases.

Safety Monitoring: Regular testing ensures PrEP remains safe for the user.

Tips for PrEP Adherence

Set daily reminders (e.g., alarms, phone apps).

Use a pill organizer to stay on track.

Pair taking PrEP with a daily habit (e.g., brushing teeth).

Where to get PrEP?

Consider PrEP if you are in any of the high-risk groups or want to take proactive steps in HIV prevention.

Contact healthcare (hospital/HISCs) providers or community organizations (Pride Bhutan) for more information and to schedule a PrEP consultation.

Myths and Facts About PrEP

Myth: PrEP promotes risky behaviour.
Fact: PrEP is a protective tool that supports people in taking control of their health.

Myth: PrEP is only for certain groups.

Fact: PrEP is for anyone at high risk of HIV, regardless of background or behaviour.

Protect yourself. Take control of your health with PrEP.