PEP is a 28-day course of medication that can prevent HIV infection if started within 72 hours of a potential exposure, such as condomless sex, a broken condom or sexual assault

⏳ Time Is Critical!

The sooner you start PEP, the more effective it is.

⏱️ 0–24 hours: Most effective

⏱️ 24–48 hours: Still works well

⏱️ 48–72 hours: Still offered

⛔ After 72 hours: Too late for PEP, still seek medical help.

What to Say to a Healthcare Provider:

Go to a hospital emergency room or sexual health clinic and state clearly:

"I may have been exposed to HIV. I want to start PEP".

It is crucial to mention that the potential exposure was within the last 72 hours.

You are not required to provide proof of the incident.

If you feel you are not being taken seriously, you can ask for:

"Can I talk to the on-call infectious diseases specialist."

You can show them this:

View ASHM guideline document

If You Encounter Resistance:

If a healthcare professional is hesitant to provide PEP, you can calmly state:

"WA Health guidelines for HIV post-exposure prophylaxis recommend it be offered within 72 hours of a potential exposure. Could you please consult the on-call HIV specialist or refer me to someone who can assist?".

⚠️ For immediate advice and information on where to find a PEP provider, you can call the

Western Australia PEP Hotline:

📞 1300 767 161

Help Getting Doxy-PEP

Doxy-PEP involves taking a 200mg dose of doxycycline, an antibiotic, within 72 hours of unprotected sex to reduce the risk of contracting sexually transmitted infections (STIs) like chlamydia and syphilis.

⏳Time Is Critical!

Doxy-PEP must be started within 72 hours to be effective.

How to Ask for Doxy-PEP:

Be direct with your doctor/nurse:

"I am at high risk for STIs and I would like to use Doxy-PEP for prevention".

You can also mention:

"I know the ASHM consensus statement supports its use for people like me. Can we discuss if it’s right for me?”.

You do not need to wait until you have an STI to ask for this preventative measure.

❌ If a Provider is Unwilling to Prescribe:

If a doctor is unfamiliar with or refuses to prescribe Doxy-PEP, you can say:

“Off-label use is common in sexual health, and ASHM has released a consensus statement. I’m informed and requesting it for STI prevention".

You can also ask:

"Can I be referred to a sexual health doctor if you’re not comfortable prescribing?".

Show them the guidelines:

Showing them the official ASHM Doxy-PEP Statement can also be helpful

View ASHM Doxy-PEP Statement

Help Getting PrEP

PrEP is a daily medication that is highly effective at preventing HIV when taken as prescribed. In Australia, PrEP is subsidised through the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS), making it accessible to anyone at risk.

How to Start the Conversation about PrEP:

A simple and direct approach is best:

“I want PrEP to protect myself from HIV”.

You can add:

“I’m sexually active and want PrEP to prevent HIV".

Overcoming Barriers to Access:

If a doctor suggests you are not at high risk or doesn't prescribe PrEP, you can respond:

“I’m eligible under ASHM guidelines and PrEP is available on the PBS. Could you refer me to someone who does prescribe PrEP...?".

Disclaimer:

Not Professional Advice

No Liability & Use at Your Own Risk

No Endorsement of any Provider

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