Protecting Your Health Needs
In addition to setting boundaries with your partner, it is important to take steps to protect your health needs in case someone does cross the line.
Post-Exposure Prophylaxis
For example, if your partner did something that put you at risk for HIV, you may want to see your doctor right away and ask for PEP. You may remember that PEP is a medicine that can reduce your chances of getting HIV if you are exposed to the virus. However, it is only effective within 72 hours of the exposure and the sooner the better.
Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis
If you believe you are at ongoing risk for HIV (for example, in a relationship with an HIV-positive partner or in an open relationship with an HIV-negative partner), PrEP is the better option. As we’ve said before, when taken correctly, PrEP reduces the risk of getting HIV from sex by 99%.
