They explained that, due to my behaviors of having multiple partners and not always using protection, I could be at risk of contracting HIV. I didn’t love the idea of being on another medication. I already have to take medication for my mental health. I don’t really like taking any pills. They explained that if I were to get HIV then I’d be on medication, so why not take something to prevent that. It’s a good point, but I still think I need some more time to think about it. I do like that they have the option of getting a shot, because I’m not always the best at remembering to take pills. They said it would be free for me too, so that’s a plus. They said I can call them if I have more questions about it. I’ll probably talk to them about it some more the next time I go in to get tested. It’s just nice to know that the option is there.
The Option Is There
I found out about PrEP when I went and got tested for HIV and STIs. I usually go twice a year. It just depends on how many partners or relationships I’ve had between getting tested. I got my testing done for free at a local clinic because I don’t have insurance. The person doing my test asked me if I knew what PrEP was, and at that time, I didn’t. They explained that it is a pill or a shot I can get that’ll prevent me from getting HIV. I was pretty surprised, because I didn’t know the medication had come that far. They wanted me to schedule a separate visit to talk about it, but I told them I wanted to wait.
