What to know first
Comparing PrEP, PEP, condoms, testing and U=U
- PrEP is used before exposure; PEP is for emergencies and must start within 72 hours.
- Condoms reduce the risk of HIV and many other STIs.
- A person with HIV who maintains an undetectable viral load does not transmit HIV through sex (U=U).
There are now several effective and more accessible methods to prevent HIV. These include consistent use of condoms, taking PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) for those at risk, ongoing treatment for people living with HIV to reduce transmission risk (U=U), and regular HIV testing to know your own and your partner’s status. Choosing the prevention method that best fits your lifestyle is the key to sustainably reducing the risk of HIV infection.
Build a Layered Prevention Plan
HIV prevention is not a single permanent choice. A plan can combine condoms, PrEP, regular testing, sterile injecting equipment and open conversations with partners. The right combination can change when a relationship, health need or pattern of exposure changes.
Match the Option to the Timing
PrEP is used before and during periods when HIV exposure may occur. PEP is an emergency option after a possible exposure and must be assessed as soon as possible, no later than 72 hours. If emergency exposures happen repeatedly, a provider can help plan a transition from PEP to PrEP.
Include Treatment and Other Sexual Health Needs
A person with HIV who takes treatment and maintains an undetectable viral load does not transmit HIV through sex—this is U=U. U=U does not prevent other sexually transmitted infections, so STI screening, vaccination and condoms may still be useful depending on your goals.
How can I make a prevention plan with a clinic?
Start with the decision you need help making: a condom broke, you want to start PrEP, or you are unsure when to test. Bring the date of your latest exposure, previous results and a list of medicines. Ask how the plan fits your day-to-day life, including appointments, costs and getting refills. You can review the plan when your needs change; one choice does not have to last forever.
What else matters when I already use prevention?
Discuss HIV, other STIs and pregnancy prevention as separate goals, because a method may not cover all three. Ask about condoms, STI screening and vaccinations appropriate for you. This page helps you choose a direction; the dedicated PrEP and PEP guides explain starting medicine and follow-up. A clinic can help turn these options into a plan you can keep using.
Match prevention options to the situation
This table separates the role of each option; it does not rank one method as best for everyone.
| Method | When it is used | What it helps with |
|---|---|---|
| PrEP | Before and during periods of possible exposure | Reduces the chance of acquiring HIV |
| PEP | After an exposure, within 72 hours | A 28-day emergency prevention course |
| Condoms | During sex as appropriate | Reduce HIV, STI and pregnancy risks |
| U=U | When a person with HIV maintains an undetectable viral load | Prevents sexual transmission of HIV |
