Personalized Sexual Wellness & HIV Prevention

HIV PrEP & DoxyPEP — Frequently Asked Questions

What is HIV PrEP?

PrEP stands for Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis—a daily medication that helps prevent HIV. When taken as prescribed, it can reduce the risk of contracting HIV from sex by up to 99%.

Who should consider PrEP?

PrEP is for anyone who wants extra protection against HIV. You may benefit from PrEP if you:

Have a sexual partner living with HIV

Have multiple sexual partners without consistent condom use

Have recently been diagnosed with a sexually transmitted infection (STI)

Share injection drug equipment

Your healthcare provider will help determine if PrEP is right for you based on your personal health and lifestyle.

How do I take PrEP?

PrEP is taken once daily as a pill. Consistency is key—taking it every day helps maintain protection. Some people may also be eligible for long-acting injectable PrEP, which is given every two months.

Is PrEP safe?

Yes—PrEP is FDA-approved and has been proven safe and effective for most people. Side effects are usually mild and temporary, such as nausea or headache. We monitor your health with regular check-ins and lab tests to ensure your safety.

What is DoxyPEP?

DoxyPEP stands for Doxycycline Post-Exposure Prophylaxis. It’s an emerging strategy for preventing certain bacterial STIs—like chlamydia, syphilis, and in some cases gonorrhea—by taking a single dose of doxycycline shortly after potential exposure.

Who should consider DoxyPEP?

Current guidelines suggest DoxyPEP may be especially helpful for individuals at higher risk for bacterial STIs, such as those with multiple partners or recent STI diagnoses. Your provider will assess your individual situation to see if it’s appropriate for you.

How do I take DoxyPEP?

When prescribed, DoxyPEP is taken as a 200 mg dose within 72 hours after unprotected sex or potential exposure. It’s not meant for daily use—it’s taken only when needed.

Can I use both PrEP and DoxyPEP?

Yes. They work in different ways—PrEP helps prevent HIV, while DoxyPEP targets certain bacterial STIs. For some people, using both may provide broader protection.

Do PrEP or DoxyPEP protect against all STIs?

No. While PrEP is highly effective against HIV and DoxyPEP can help prevent some bacterial STIs, neither protects against all STIs. Condoms remain the best protection against a wider range of infections.

Is my privacy protected?

Absolutely. All sexual health services at Radiance & Co. are confidential and non-judgmental. Your care plan is tailored to your needs and your privacy is always our priority.

How do I get started?

Schedule a confidential consultation. We’ll review your health history, discuss your lifestyle and goals, order necessary tests, and create a personalized prevention plan that fits you.