PReP, what is it and why should every trans woman should get it.

Recently, after a long time with a lot of mix ups, I am hoping to go onto PReP. So, what is PReP?

PReP stands for pre-exposure prophylaxis, a preventive strategy for people who are at high risk of acquiring HIV infection. PReP involves taking a daily pill that contains two antiretroviral drugs that block the replication of HIV in the body. PReP can reduce the risk of getting HIV from sex by about 99% and from injection drug use by at least 74%. PReP is not a vaccine and does not provide protection against other sexually transmitted infections or pregnancy. PReP is only effective if taken consistently and correctly, and it requires regular medical visits and HIV testing.

As a trans woman I am indeed in the high risk category of catching HIV. So I went to my GP about a year ago to get onto PReP. Unfortunately my GP can't do anything about getting me on PReP, though a charity called Brook (At least here in the North West of England anyway) can get you on it. 

So about 9 months ago I went in to get some blood/urine tests done (standard procedure before you get put onto PReP). Unfortunately the lab at Brook lost my test's. I was told much later that the lab had a change of staff while my tests was there and that's why this happened.

To cut a long story short, about 3 months ago I went to my GP about my gender dysphoria, as it has been getting worse. After a discussion with me she put me forward for Sexual Psychotherapy. This is also done by Brook.

At my first meeting I thought I was going there about PReP, as I didn't know that my GP had referred me to go to Psychotherapy. Now don't get me wrong I am glad she did, as I freely admit I need help with my Gender Dysphoria. So amongst the confusion, the therapist had a word about my PReP and I got the tests done ... again ... a few weeks ago. The results came back a few days later.

Now while I am clean, IE no STD's etc, the blood work did find a problem with my kidneys. Apparently PReP hammers the kidneys so they have to be in tip top shape. So I was asked to do more blood work last week. The results are back and I am going back to Brook in about 10 days to find out what is happening.

I was told not to worry, as it could just have been something passing through my system, but you do. The fact I am typing this out at 03:48am should give you an indication how stressful this can be. Will it be worth it though. Most defiantly. The last thing anyone wants to get is HIV, though the treatment for it is very good these days.

Wish me luck ! !