HIV prevention has changed dramatically over the past decade. Today, highly effective tools like PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) make it possible to significantly reduce the risk of acquiring HIV and offer people more control over their sexual health than ever before.
At Tufts Medicine, we are passionate about helping people understand their risk, get tested and access prevention options in a confidential, supportive setting. Mary Hopkins, MD, Director, Infectious Diseases Clinic and Program Director, Infectious Disease Fellowship, Tufts University School of Medicine, answers the most frequently asked questions she hears about PrEP—one of the most effective HIV prevention tools available today.
What is PrEP?
PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) is a medication taken to prevent HIV before exposure. It comes in two forms:
- A daily oral pill
- A long-acting injectable option given every few months for eligible patients
When taken as prescribed, PrEP is highly effective at reducing the risk of getting HIV through sex or injection drug use. It does not protect against other sexually transmitted infections (STIs), so it is often used as part of a broader sexual health plan.
How effective is PrEP?
When taken consistently as prescribed, PrEP reduces the risk of getting HIV from sex by about 99%. For people who inject drugs, it also significantly lowers HIV risk when used consistently. PrEP works best when combined with regular HIV testing, STI screening and open conversations with your healthcare clinician about your sexual health and prevention goals.
Who should consider PrEP?
We recommend PrEP for anyone who may be at increased risk for HIV. Consider it if you:
- Have a partner living with HIV
- Do not consistently use condoms
- Have had a bacterial STI, such as gonorrhea, syphilis or chlamydia, in the past 6 months
- Share needles or injection equipment
- Have multiple sexual partners
- Want an added layer of protection for peace of mind
PrEP is not just for one group of people. It’s for anyone who wants proactive, preventive care tailored to their lifestyle and needs.
What happens at a PrEP appointment?
Starting PrEP is simpler than many people think. At your appointment, your clinician will:
- Review your medical and sexual health history
- Perform HIV and STI testing
- Discuss whether a daily pill or injectable PrEP option is right for you
- Answer questions about side effects, insurance coverage and follow-up care
Most patients continue with routine follow-up visits and testing every few months while taking PrEP.
What’s the difference between PrEP and PEP?
People often confuse PrEP and PEP, but they serve different purposes.
- PrEP is taken before possible HIV exposure to help prevent infection.
- PEP (post-exposure prophylaxis) is an emergency medication started after a possible HIV exposure and must begin within 72 hours.
Both are effective HIV prevention tools, but timing is critical.
Is PrEP covered by insurance?
In many cases, yes. Most private insurance plans, as well as Medicaid and Medicare, cover PrEP and related preventive care services. Coverage may include medication, routine HIV testing, lab work and follow-up visits. If you have questions about cost or coverage, the Tufts Medicine team can help you understand your options and connect you with available assistance programs.
Additional prevention tools
In addition to PrEP, Tufts Medical Center offers a full range of sexual health services, including:
- Confidential sexual health consultations
- Comprehensive HIV and STI testing
- Doxycycline post-exposure prophylaxis (doxy-PEP) to help reduce the risk of certain bacterial STIs
- Ongoing follow-up, monitoring and support
- Same-week—and often same-day—appointments for urgent needs
These services are designed to make prevention easy, accessible and stigma-free.
A trusted place for sexual healthcare
Tufts Medical Center provides discreet, judgment-free care focused on prevention, testing and treatment. We are staffed by experienced infectious disease specialists who prioritize individualized care plans and patient comfort.
We understand that sexual health can feel personal and sensitive. Our team provides confidential, respectful care in a supportive environment free of judgment or stigma. Whether you are considering PrEP for the first time or want to reassess your prevention options, the team can help guide you through every step.
Take control of your health
If you’re interested in PrEP or want to learn more about HIV prevention options, you can schedule a confidential appointment.
Preventing HIV is easier than ever, and support is available when you need it. Interested in PrEP? Talk with a clinician today.
