Prevention Strategies

Risk reduction frameworks including PrEP, HPV vaccines, safer sex practices, doxyPEP, and communication strategies for sexual health.

PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis)

PrEP reduces HIV risk by 99%+ when taken as prescribed. Options include daily oral pills (Truvada, Descovy) and long-acting injectable cabotegravir (Apretude).

HPV Vaccine

Gardasil 9 protects against 9 HPV types causing 90% of cervical cancers and 90% of genital warts. Recommended ages 9-26, available through 45.

Safer Sex Practices

• Condoms: 98% effective (perfect use) for HIV, gonorrhea, chlamydia prevention
• Dental dams: Barrier for oral sex — reduces HSV, HPV, gonorrhea transmission
• Regular testing: Annual screening minimum; every 3 months for higher-risk individuals
• Communication: Discuss STI status, testing history, and boundaries with partners

DoxyPEP (Post-Exposure Prophylaxis)

Doxycycline taken within 72 hours of condomless sex reduces bacterial STI risk by 60-90% for chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis. Recommended for MSM and transgender women.