Using PrEP Is Not Shameful: Who Should Use PrEP and Why Society Needs a New Perspective

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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.

PrEP is not limited to LGBTQ+ communities.

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.

What If You Forget a Dose?

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.

PrEP Is Preventive Care

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.

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