PrEP 101: What You Should Know Before Starting HIV Prevention

Want to protect yourself from HIV? Learn how PrEP works, who should take it, and how our team at Low Cost Health Clinics makes this highly effective prevention plan simple and affordable.

Protecting your sexual health is an important part of your overall wellness, and modern medicine offers powerful tools to help you stay safe. One of the most effective options available today is pre-exposure prophylaxis, commonly known as PrEP. This daily medication or periodic injection helps block the virus from establishing an infection if you're exposed.

At Low Cost Health Clinics, Dr. Shruti Patel, MD, and our team provide compassionate, affordable care to patients throughout Southern California. We serve communities across Anaheim, Riverside, Santa Ana, Corona, and Indio, California, making it easy to access essential services like HIV/STD screening and treatment. You don't need to worry about high costs or judgment when you visit our offices.

What is PrEP and how does it work?

PrEP is a preventive treatment that uses antiretroviral medications to stop HIV from taking hold in your body. It's designed for individuals who are currently HIV-negative but may have a higher risk of exposure through sexual activity or injection drug use. By taking this proactive step, you can significantly reduce your chances of acquiring the virus.

When you take oral PrEP exactly as prescribed, it's incredibly effective. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC, 2024), daily oral PrEP reduces the risk of getting HIV from sex by about 99 percent and from injection drug use by at least 74 percent. Consistency is key, as the medication needs to build up in your system to offer maximum protection.

Understanding your medication options

You have more choices than ever when it comes to choosing a prevention method that fits your daily routine. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved multiple options for PrEP, including daily pills and long-acting injections. Our team will help you evaluate your lifestyle to determine which formulation is the best match for you.

For those who find it difficult to remember a daily pill, newer options offer incredible convenience. The HIV.gov (2025) platform notes that the CDC highly recommends the recently approved twice-yearly injection to help patients overcome daily adherence challenges. This long-acting option means you only need to think about your prevention plan twice a year.

Common myths about HIV prevention

A common misconception is that taking PrEP protects you against every type of sexually transmitted infection (STI). This is not the case, as the medication is formulated specifically to target HIV. It doesn't build immunity against other common bacterial or viral infections.

As explained by the National Institutes of Health (NIH, 2026), PrEP offers zero protection against other STIs like chlamydia, gonorrhea, or syphilis. To maintain complete protection and reduce your risk of other infections, you should continue to use condoms alongside your medication. Regular screenings are also vital to staying healthy.

Starting your prevention journey is straightforward and easy with Low Cost Health Clinics. It begins with a simple consultation and blood test. We'll help you choose the right option for your lifestyle and ensure you have the support you need. Our clinics keep these visits accessible by making sure they’re quick, confidential, and highly affordable.

You don't have to navigate your healthcare decisions alone. To discuss your options or schedule a screening, contact our team at one of our convenient Southern California locations today. We're here to help you take control of your health with confidence.