Post-exposure prophylaxis after sexual exposure (PEPSE)

If you think you have been exposed to HIV by having sex, we have a medication for you that may help prevent you from catching HIV. This medication is called PEPSE, post-exposure prophylaxis after sexual exposure.

It is important to seek help as soon as possible. Preferably within hours rather than days. The medications are more effective when taken earlier and may not work if taken three or more days after having sex.
 

Undetectable = Untransmittable

If your partner has HIV and you do not, there are ways to lower the risk of HIV being passed on during sex. Your partner should take HIV medication. This is one of the best ways to prevent HIV transmission.

If the following conditions are met, there is no chance of passing on HIV through sex:

• Your HIV positive partner takes their HIV medication every day.
• They have been taking HIV medication for at least 6 months and have a undetectable viral load.
• They continue to take their HIV medications without missing doses.
   

Needlestick injuries and other forms of exposure

Please contact our occupational health (opens in new tab) team or GP, if you need post exposure prophylaxis after an occupational health exposure, needlestick injury or similar. You can also go to our emergency department as appropriate.