Women and PrEP
What is PrEP and who is it for?
PrEP is for HIV-negative individuals who want to reduce the risk of acquiring HIV. When taken as prescribed, PrEP can be highly effective at preventing transmission of HIV from sex or injection drug use. PrEP is for people who are at ongoing risk for HIV, and is not the right choice for individuals who have been exposed in the last 72 hours. If exposed to HIV in the last 72 hours other interventions such as PEP (Post-exposure prophylaxis), may be the best course of action. An advantage of taking PrEP is individuals who have receptive vaginal sex can independently control the HIV prevention method. While PrEP is a protective measure against HIV, individuals should still practice safe sex and drug use to protect against the transmission of other STDs.
How does PrEP work?
When specific cells in the body are infected with HIV, they start making thousands of new copies of the virus within the body. HIV drugs work to prevent the viral cells from making copies and spreading.
When an HIV-negative woman already has HIV drugs within their bloodstream and then is exposed to HIV, the medicine can prevent the virus from making copies of itself, and protects them from acquiring the virus.
If PrEP is not taken as prescribed, there may not be enough medication in your bloodstream to block the virus, which can result in the spread of HIV.
Which PrEP medications are approved for Women?
In Canada, Truvada® pills (or a generic equivalent) is the only PrEP medication approved for use by women and other people who have receptive vaginal sex. There are other medications used as PrEP that are approved in other countries, but not yet approved in Canada.
Can I take PrEP when on Birth Control or Hormone Therapy?
Currently, there are no known drug conflicts or interactions between PrEP and Birth Control (Pill, patch ring, IUD etc.) or Hormone Therapy.
Are there any side effects to taking PrEP?
Side effects can include diarrhea, nausea, headache, fatigue, and stomach pain. However, these side effects usually go away over time, and side effects that worsen should be discussed with a healthcare provider.
