PrEP for HIV Prevention - Right to Know

PrEP for HIV Prevention

Rhode Island PrEP Champions Network

What is PrEP and what are PrEP Champions?

PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) is medication (pills or shots) that dramatically reduce your chances of getting HIV through sex or injection drug use. It is important to talk to a healthcare professional to determine if PrEP is right for you.

PrEP Champions are Rhode Island clinics that specialize in offering sexual health services and make it easy to obtain PrEP, but you can also ask your primary care provider about PrEP.

PrEP protects you against HIV but not against other sexually transmitted infections (STIs). To learn more about all the ways you can prevent HIV and STIs, please see our STI Prevention & Vaccination page. RIDOH offers free condoms by mail to any address in Rhode Island.

How do I get PrEP?

It’s easier than ever to get PrEP! The Rhode Island PrEP Champions network lists available PrEP services and has videos of trusted healthcare professionals from sexual health clinics and community health centers in Rhode Island that will help you decide if PrEP is right for you.

Some of these clinics offer low or no cost services and assist in minimizing any out-of-pocket costs associated with your prescription and associated testing. For more information and a list of clinics, please visit the Rhode Island PrEP Champions page on the RI Department of Health website.

Is PrEP available as an injection?

Two long-acting injectable forms of PrEP (shots) have been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), both intended for adults and adolescents at risk for HIV through sex who weigh at least 77 pounds:

Apretude® (cabotegravir) is an injection given by a health care professional every other month instead of daily oral pills.
Yeztugo® (lenacapavir) is an injection given by a health care professional twice yearly instead of daily oral pills. The starter dose includes oral pills taken for the first two days to get the medication concentration in the body up to protective levels quickly.

Listen to Dr. Philip Chan explain the latest on getting injectable PrEP at Open Door Health in Providence:

Long-Acting Injectable PrEP

Leo Foskett and Leo Costa, nurse practitioners at Corliss Clinic in Providence, Rhode Island, discuss injectable PrEP options available at their clinic.

PrEP and Rhode Island PrEP Champions | RI Dept of Health

PrEP can help you stay free from HIV. PrEP Champions are Rhode Island clinics that specialize in offering sexual health services and make it easy to obtain PrEP, but you can also ask your primary care provider about PrEP.

PrEP and PEP: HIV Prevention | amaze

VIDEO (2.5 minutes)

PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis) | CDC

VIDEO (1 minute)

Are trans people at any increased risk for HIV or STIs?

The behaviors that put people at risk for HIV and STIs are the same for everyone, including trans people.

Can you get HIV or an STI by just being naked with another person and rubbing bodies together?

You cannot get HIV by rubbing your bodies together. You also cannot get HIV from toilet seats, kissing, or holding hands. However, by rubbing your bodies together you can get some STIs like crabs, scabies, and herpes.

Can I get HIV or an STI from oral sex?

People can get STIs by giving and receiving oral sex. Although there is a low rate of HIV transmission through oral sex, other STIs like gonorrhea and syphilis can be transmitted this way. If you perform a lot of oral sex (penis in your mouth), you may want to ask your doctor to do a throat...

Can I get tested for HIV and STIs in Rhode Island without a parent or guardian’s permission?

Yes. Rhode Island has laws that allow adolescents to get tested for HIV and STIs without permission from a parent or guardian. Your parents will not be notified that you have been tested or the results of the test by your doctor. However, if you are getting tested and use health insurance to pay for it...

If I have HIV or an STI, do I have to tell my partner(s)?

While there is no current law in Rhode Island that says that you have to tell your partner(s) if you have an STI or HIV, not telling your partner(s) that they have been exposed could cause immediate or future health problems for them and any other sex partners they may have. If your partner is pregnant,...

What should a person do if they recently tested positive for HIV?

When a person has a “reactive” result from a rapid (same day) HIV test, that person should get a blood test to confirm the result. If the confirmatory test is determined to be positive, that person should seek medical care from a doctor who specializes in the treatment of HIV.

How often should people get tested for HIV and where can they get tested?

People should get tested at least annually if they share needles, have a history of sexually transmitted diseases, or have multiple sex partners, and are not using condoms. Gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men should be tested at least annually. Individuals can be tested at their doctor’s office or at other locations...

Is there a cure for HIV?

There is currently no cure for HIV, but there are ways to prevent the spread of the virus, including using condoms or clean needles. There are medications for people living with HIV to keep virus levels suppressed and the immune system healthy. People who may be at risk and are HIV negative can take PrEP, a...

How is HIV spread?

HIV is spread through blood, semen, vaginal secretions and breast milk. It is usually spread during anal or vaginal sex and sharing needles. HIV is not spread by kissing, toilet seats, hand-holding, mosquitoes, or sweat.

What is HIV, what is AIDS, and what is the difference?

HIV stands for the Human Immunodeficiency Virus and is the virus that *CAN* cause AIDS (Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome). There are many viruses that cause people to become sick (e.g. the “flu”, common cold, mono). HIV damages the body by destroying blood cells (called T cells) that help fight infections. This means your immune system no...

Can I get an STI if I’ve already had it once?

Absolutely. Without correct use of a condom, you can catch any number of STIs such as chlamydia, gonorrhea and syphilis over and over again. If you contract HIV or herpes, you won't get it again because there is no cure. You will have that STI for life.

Does spermicide provide additional protection against HIV?

You should not use additional or separate applications of spermicide for HIV prevention during vaginal or anal sex. Although spermicide has a chemical that kills HIV in test tubes (nonoxynol-N9, “N-9”), studies have shown that inserting N-9 into the vagina may cause irritation and actually increase the risk of HIV infection during vaginal sex. N-9 may...

How do I know if I have an STI?

Many STIs don’t have symptoms people can see or feel. The only way to know for sure if you have HIV or an STI is to get tested regularly. Still, it is important to learn what is normal for your body or your partner’s body. Get things checked out when something changes, like a new or...

How can I prevent HIV and STI transmission during vaginal sex?

HIV is spread during vaginal sex when HIV-infected semen, vaginal fluid, or menstrual blood comes in contact with the mucous membranes of the vagina or penis. Some STIs (e.g., gonorrhea, chlamydia, trichomoniasis) are spread the same way as HIV. Other STIs (e.g., herpes, syphilis, chancroid) are transmitted through contact with infected skin or mucous membranes. In...

How can I prevent HIV and STI transmission during anal sex?

Unprotected anal sex with a person who has HIV or another STI, or whose HIV/STI status you don’t know, is the highest-risk sexual activity, regardless of gender. External latex condoms, used with a water-based lubricant, reduce the chances of tissue and skin tearing and lowers the risk of transmitting disease during anal sex. However, even with...

How can I prevent HIV and STI transmission during oral sex?

Although oral sex presents less of a risk than vaginal or anal sex for transmitting HIV and some other STIs, the risk still exists. Herpes is commonly passed between genitals and the mouth, and you can get a bacterial infection in your mouth or throat from an STI. The risk of HIV transmission through oral sex...

Is it possible to get different sizes of condoms?

Condoms come in many sizes and kinds (even different flavors). No penis is too big for a condom – you just have to find the size and style that’s right for you and your partner!

What is a dental dam?

Dental dams are latex or polyurethane sheets used between the mouth and vagina or anus during oral sex.

Is it safe to use flavored condoms for vaginal or anal sex?

Flavored condoms are amazing for oral sex and can help prevent STI transmission. However, some flavored condoms have sugars that can cause yeast infections. So, before using flavored condoms for vaginal sex, read the packaging to check for added sugars.

Is using two condoms better than one to avoid pregnancy?

When it comes to condoms, two is definitely not better than one. Two condoms can create more friction, which increases the chances the condom(s) will break. If you want to be super safe, use condoms with another effective method of birth control.

Do external and internal condoms provide the same protection against HIV?

Yes. Some studies show that internal condoms are as effective at protecting against HIV as external condoms. Internal condoms are made of nitrile, which is an effective barrier to HIV. Internal and external condoms should not be used at the same time. Internal condoms and external condoms are available at some drug stores, community health centers,...

Do birth control methods other than condoms reduce the risks of STIs?

No. Only condoms reduce the risk of both pregnancy and STIs. Birth control pills, patches, injections (Depo-Provera), intrauterine devices (IUDs), diaphragms, and any birth control methods other than condoms do not provide protection against STIs and HIV. You should use an external or internal condom in addition to any other method you use to prevent pregnancy.

What should I do if my partner or I am allergic to latex?

If you’re allergic to latex, you can use condoms made out of polyurethane. These are available in many of the same places that you find latex condoms, such as drug stores, grocery stores, and health clinics. People who are allergic to latex can also use condoms made of animal tissue for birth control, but these don’t...

The condom broke. What should I do?

If the condom breaks – or leaks or spills – use emergency contraception as soon as you can and up to five days after it happens. You may also want to get tested for STIs.

Can I reuse a condom?

Condoms are definitely not reusable. You need to put a new one on each and every time you have sex.

Where can I find free condoms?

Many local organizations, and some health clinics may offer free condoms. Visit the Services in Rhode Island page to find organizations near you. Rhode Islanders can order condoms for free from the RI Department of Health. Each shipment contains approximately 10-15 condoms, depending on your preferences. The only requirement for requesting free condoms is that you...

STI Prevention & Vaccinations

STI Prevention | Vaccinations for STIs | HIV Prevention Medications | Vaccinate Before You Graduate The surest way to protect yourself against STIs is to not have sex. That means not having any vaginal, anal, or oral sex (“abstinence”). There are many things to consider before having sex. It’s okay to say “no” if you don’t...

STI, HIV & Hepatitis C Testing

Below is a list of healthcare providers across Rhode Island where you can get tested for sexually transmitted infections (including HIV and hepatitis C), sometimes for free or low-cost if you are eligible. You can also get a lab order to be tested by your own doctor or healthcare provider (if you have one). In Rhode Island,...

Free Condoms

Below is a list of places across Rhode Island where you can get free condoms, along with a way to get free condoms mailed to you, as long as you are a Rhode Island resident. Some of these facilities offer free condoms only to their own clients/members/students/patients, and some offer free condoms to any Rhode Islander....

Trichomoniasis

Trichomoniasis ("Trich") is a very common and treatable STI caused by infection with Trichomonas vaginalis (a protozoan parasite). Most people who have trichomoniasis don’t have symptoms, so they can spread the infection without knowing it. Risks spreads through vaginal sex without a condom with a partner who has the infection Symptoms Most people who have trichomoniasis...

Syphilis

Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) that can cause serious health problems without treatment. Infection develops in stages (primary, secondary, latent, and tertiary). Each stage can have different signs and symptoms. Risks spreads through sex (vaginal, oral, or anal) without a condom with a partner who has the infection pregnant woman with syphiis can give...

Pelvic Inflammatory Disease

Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) is a serious complication of some STIs. It is a general name for infections of the uterus, ovaries, and fallopian tubes. PID is common. Women can get PID if they have an STI (like untreated chlamydia or gonorrhea). It can cause infertility in women. Risks you are at risk if you are...

Pubic Lice (Crabs)

Pubic lice, also called crab lice or “crabs,” are parasitic insects found primarily attached to hair in the pubic or genital area of humans, but they are occasionally found on coarse hair elsewhere on the body, such as hair on the legs, armpits, mustache, beard, eyebrows, or eyelashes. Pubic lice are different from the lice you...

HPV

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is the most common sexually transmitted infection (STI) in the United States. There are many different types of HPV, including types that can cause genital warts and cancers. There is a vaccination for HPV and all pre-teens ages 11 or 12 years should get vaccinated. Rhode Island law requires students entering 7th grade...

HIV / AIDS

HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) is a virus that attacks the body’s immune system. If HIV is not treated, it can lead to AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome). There is currently no effective cure. Once people get HIV, they have it for life. But with proper medical care, HIV can be controlled. People with HIV who get effective...

Herpes

Genital herpes is a common STI caused by two types of viruses – herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) and herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2). Most people with genital herpes do not know they have it because they have no symptoms or very mild symptoms. There is currently no cure for herpes, just medication to...

Hepatitis

Hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver. When the liver is inflamed or damaged, its ability to process nutrients, filter blood, and fight infections is decreased. The most common types of viral Hepatitis are Hepatitis A, B, and C - all cause similar symptoms, but they are spread in different ways and can affect the liver...

Gonorrhea

Gonorrhea can cause infection in the genitals, rectum, and throat. It is very common, especially among young people ages 15-24 years. Most women (and some men) who have gonorrhea don’t have symptoms, or symptoms are mild and can be mistaken for a bladder or vaginal infection. Risks spreads through sex (vaginal, oral, or anal) without a...

Chlamydia

Chlamydia is a common, but curable, STI that can cause infection among both men and women. It can cause permanent damage to a woman’s reproductive system. Most people who have chlamydia don’t have symptoms, so they can spread the infection without knowing it. Risks spreads through sex (vaginal, oral, or anal) without a condom with a...

Rights & Privacy

Your right to: Privacy/Confidentiality | Affordable Care Healthcare Services | Safe Schools As a young person in Rhode Island, you have the right to lead a healthy life by having full access to confidential and affordable health care. Your legal right to sexual and reproductive health care includes accessing birth control, condoms, emergency contraception, abortion, pregnancy...

Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)

Prevention | Testing Treatment | Common STIs **IMPORTANT: In Rhode Island, minors DO NOT need parental permission to be tested or treated for an STI** Sexually transmitted infections or STIs (sometimes referred to as sexually transmitted diseases or STDs) pass from one person to another through vaginal, oral, and anal sex. They also can spread through...

Condoms

Free Condoms | External Condoms | Internal Condoms Condoms prevent pregnancy by keeping semen (the fluid that contains sperm) from entering the vagina. The external condom (sometimes called a male condom) is placed on the penis when it becomes erect. The internal condom (sometimes called a female condom) is inserted into the vagina before sexual activity. Using external...

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