Where should I start?
Think in layers: HIV prevention before exposure, urgent options after exposure, STI testing, condoms when they fit your situation, and a clinician you can talk to without waiting for the rest of life to be perfect. CDC PrEP guidance · CDC PEP guidance.
What if I may have been exposed to HIV?
Seek assessment immediately. CDC says PEP must start within 72 hours after a possible HIV exposure, and sooner is better. Contact a healthcare provider, urgent care provider, or emergency department now; do not wait for symptoms or a routine testing appointment. A clinician determines whether PEP is appropriate. Source: CDC.
What is the difference between PrEP and PEP?
| Option | Purpose | Next step |
|---|---|---|
| PrEP | Medicine to reduce the chance of getting HIV before exposure. CDC describes pill and injectable options. | Ask a clinician about HIV testing, the options that fit you, prescriptions, and follow-up. |
| PEP | Emergency medication after a possible HIV exposure. | Seek immediate assessment as soon as possible and no later than 72 hours after the exposure. |
Take prescribed HIV prevention medication as directed. PrEP does not prevent other STIs or pregnancy. Condoms and an individualized testing plan can remain useful parts of prevention. Source: CDC PrEP guidance.
What is doxy PEP?
Doxy PEP is doxycycline used after sex to reduce the chance of certain bacterial STIs for some people. CDC’s public guidance says taking prescribed doxycycline within 72 hours after sex can reduce the chances of syphilis and chlamydia and, in some studies, gonorrhea. CDC recommends discussing the pros and cons with a healthcare provider; current guidance specifically recommends that conversation for gay and bisexual men and transgender women who had chlamydia, syphilis, or gonorrhea in the previous 12 months. Source: CDC.
Doxy PEP is prescription medication and does not replace HIV prevention, STI testing, vaccination, or treatment. Do not use leftover antibiotics as a substitute for a clinician-guided plan.
Do I need testing if I have no symptoms?
Many STIs have no symptoms. Ask your clinician which tests, sample sites, and timing match your sexual history and possible exposures. Do not assume that every routine blood test checks for every STI. CDC also recommends discussing relevant vaccinations, including hepatitis B and HPV. Source: CDC STI prevention.
Use CDC’s GetTested directory to look for HIV, STI, and viral hepatitis testing services in the United States. Confirm services, costs, and hours directly.
What should I bring up at an appointment?
Write down four questions: “Which tests do I need?” “Would PrEP be appropriate for me?” “Where can I get urgent PEP assessment if I need it?” and “Should we discuss doxy PEP?” Add any questions about medications, substance use, consent, or symptoms you want help discussing.
A prevention plan should be usable in your actual life. You do not have to solve every other problem before asking a healthcare professional about sexual health.
Sources
Sources checked September 27, 2026. Medication decisions require a qualified prescriber.