The holiday season brings joy, connection, and celebration, but it can also lead to unplanned and risky situations. A single moment of vulnerability can result in potential HIV exposure, leaving you feeling anxious and uncertain. However, there’s a powerful tool available to help protect your health: PEP (post-exposure prophylaxis). Acting quickly after a risky encounter can make all the difference.
PEP is a 28-day course of medication designed to prevent HIV infection after potential HIV exposure. When started within 72 hours of exposure, it can significantly reduce the risk of the virus taking hold in your body. PEP is not a cure for HIV, but it is a critical emergency measure that can protect your health when used promptly and correctly.
Why quick action Is crucial
The effectiveness of PEP depends on how quickly you act. HIV begins to establish itself in the body soon after exposure, so starting PEP as early as possible—ideally within a few hours—is essential. Waiting too long can reduce the medication’s ability to prevent infection.
1. Recognize the need for PEP
It’s important to understand when PEP is necessary. You may need PEP if you’ve been in situations such as:
- Unprotected sex: Engaging in sexual activity without a condom with someone of unknown or positive HIV status.
- Sexual assault: Experiencing a non-consensual encounter.
- Needle sharing: Using needles that may have been contaminated.
- Occupational exposure: Healthcare workers or others accidentally are at risk for HIV exposure in the workplace.
If any of these scenarios apply to you, it’s time to take action.
2. Act fast: time is of the essence
The 72-hour window after exposure is critical. The sooner you start PEP, the more effective it will be. Aim to seek care within the first 24 hours, as this provides the best chance of preventing HIV infection after an HIV exposure.
3. Seek professional help immediately
If you think you have an HIV exposure, don’t hesitate to contact a healthcare provider. At BLISS Health, our team is ready to provide immediate assistance in a safe, confidential environment. We will:
- Assess your situation to determine the likelihood of exposure.
- Prescribe PEP if appropriate.
- Offer guidance and emotional support during this stressful time.
4. Complete the full 28-day course
For PEP to work effectively, you must take the medication as prescribed and finish the entire 28-day course. Skipping doses or stopping treatment early reduces its effectiveness and increases your risk of infection. To help you stay on track:
- Set daily reminders for your medication.
- Schedule follow-up appointments with your provider to monitor progress.
- Reach out to BLISS Health if you have any concerns or experience side effects.
5. Get follow-up testing
After completing PEP, follow-up testing is essential to confirm your HIV exposure. This typically involves an initial test shortly after finishing the medication, followed by additional tests at one month and three months post-exposure. At BLISS Health, we provide comprehensive testing services and ongoing support to ensure you remain healthy and informed.
BLISS Health: your partner in sexual health
At BLISS Health, we are dedicated to supporting you in moments of urgency and beyond. Our comprehensive services include rapid access to PEP and PrEP, routine HIV and STI testing, and educational resources to help you make informed decisions about your health. We believe that everyone deserves access to quality care and the tools needed to protect their well-being.
If you’ve had a potential HIV exposure, don’t wait—take action now. Contact BLISS Health at (407) 972-0924 or visit our clinic at 3901 E. Colonial Dr., Orlando, FL 32803 for immediate care and support. Your health and safety are our top priorities. Together, we can ensure you navigate this challenge with the best possible outcomes.