Dear Kim,
When I’m on dating apps, a lot of folks say they don’t use condoms because they are taking PrEP. I know PrEP prevents STI’s, but does it prevent all of them? I find it hard to believe that you can just stop using condoms since PrEP is available. Can you clear this up?
Thanks,
Want to be PrEPared
Dear PrEPared,
Your suspicions are correct – PrEP is best used together with condoms. PrEP is meant to prevent HIV. It’s very effective for this specific infection, but it doesn’t prevent any other STI’s, such as gonorrhea, chlamydia, and syphilis, all of which are increasing in prevalence all over the US.
If you are having sex with a partner whose STI status you don’t know, or if you or your partner are having sex with other people, you should be using condoms to prevent STI’s, even if one or both of you are on PrEP. Some STI’s are curable and all are treatable, but avoiding infection in the first place is the best way to stay healthy.
Be well, be yourself,
Kim
