STIÂ Prevention
Explained
Everything you need to know about post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP)Â â and how to get it
Post-exposure prophylaxis for bacterial STIs is an approach that may
help reduce the risk of certain infections when utilized after condomless sex.
This approach has been shown to help lower STI risk among men
who have sex with men, trans women, and other gender-diverse people born with a penis.
For the best chance of effectiveness, this strategy is ideally
initiated within 24 hours, and no later than 72 hours, after potential exposure through oral, anal, or vaginal intercourse.
Post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) for bacterial STIs is an approach intended to help lower the risk of contracting certain infections when utilized after a potential exposure, such as
having condomless anal, oral, or vaginal intercourse.
PEPÂ for bacterial STIs can reduce STI risk among men who have sex with men, trans women and other gender-diverse people born with a penis.
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Current research suggests this approach has not been shown to be as effective for cis women, trans men, and other gender-diverse people born with a vagina, so it is not routinely recommended for people with these body types. However, you can still speak with a clinician to determine whatâs right for you.
This preventative approach might also be considered if you:
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have had a bacterial STI in the past year and have had condomless anal or oral sexual contact with ⼠1 cis male or trans female partner in the past year
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have a history of syphilis infectionÂ
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have had multiple cis male or trans female sex partners in the prior year, even if you have not previously been diagnosed with an STI
This approach may NOT be right for you if you:
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have a known allergy to the active compounds utilized in this regimen
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have a known diagnosis of Myasthenia Gravis
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are currently taking certain other treatments or supplements that may interact with this regimen
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are pregnant or able to get pregnant
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are breast or chest feeding
DoxyPEP reduces the risk of contracting syphilis, chlamydia and gonorrhea when taken after condomless sex.
Studies have proven DoxyPEP is effective in reducing STI risk among men who have sex with men, trans women and other gender-diverse people born with a penis.
DoxyPEP is taken ideally within 24 hours, but no later than 72 hours, after having condomless oral, anal or vaginal intercourse.
Freddie patients who are eligible to take DoxyPEP can get it prescribed alongside PrEP.
The active compounds utilized for post-exposure prophylaxis against bacterial STIs have been widely used and are generally well-tolerated by most people.
As with any preventative health regimen, there is a potential for side effects. For example, some individuals may experience increased sensitivity to sunlight, so a healthcare provider may recommend taking precautions like wearing sunscreen.
Mild stomach upset or nausea can also sometimes occur. A clinician or pharmacist will provide specific instructions on how to properly take the regimen, such as whether to consume it with food and how to position yourself afterward, to help minimize any potential discomfort.
Post-exposure prophylaxis for bacterial STIs may help lower the risk of certain bacterial infections, but it is not intended to protect against all STIs, including HIV.
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However, there is a separate preventative strategy designed specifically to help lower the risk of HIV: pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP).
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When utilized together as directed by a healthcare provider, combining these preventative approaches can play a role in a comprehensive strategy to help manage and reduce the overall risk of acquiring multiple types of STIs.
Find out of PrEP and DoxyPEP are right for you by talking to an expert Freddie clinician.
Please note: PEP for bacterial STIs is currently available exclusively to patients who also access PrEP through Freddie.
Short questionnaire and call
1
Answer a few questions and book your free appointment with an expert Freddie clinician.
Complete your lab work
2
Get some basic tests done so we can determine if PrEP and PEP for bacterial STIs are safe for you.
Receive your prescription
3
Your results are reviewed by your Freddie clinician. If PrEP and PEP for bacterial STIs are safe for you, your prescription will be delivered discreetly to your door!
