PrEP and PEP Services in Bellaire

At St. Hope Healthcare, we are committed to providing comprehensive HIV prevention services to the Bellaire community. Two important methods, PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) and PEP (post-exposure prophylaxis), empower individuals to take control of their health and reduce the risk of HIV transmission.

Whether you’re looking to take preventive measures with PrEP or need immediate intervention with PEP, our expert team is here to support you.

What Is PrEP?

Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is a daily medication regimen for individuals at high risk of HIV. When taken consistently, PrEP reduces the risk of HIV infection through sexual transmission by up to 99% and significantly lowers the risk of needle sharing.

PrEP is ideal for individuals who:

• Are in a relationship with an HIV-positive partner.
• Have multiple sexual partners or engage in unprotected sex.
• Share needles or have a history of intravenous drug use.
• Have been diagnosed with other sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

PrEP is a safe and effective regimen that offers a proactive approach to HIV prevention. Regular check-ups and screenings are needed to confirm the long-term efficacy of PrEP therapies and can be useful for monitoring overall health.

What Is PEP?

Post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) is an emergency medication regimen for individuals who may have been exposed to HIV. PEP, a 28-day course of antiretroviral medication, must be started within 72 hours of exposure to be effective.

PEP is recommended for:

• Individuals who believe they were exposed to HIV during unprotected sex.
• Those who may have been exposed to HIV via needle-sharing.
• Survivors of sexual assault or other high-risk incidents.

If you think you may have been exposed to HIV, it’s critical to act immediately. The faster you start PEP, the greater its chances of preventing the virus from establishing itself in your body.

Why PrEP and PEP Are Important

HIV prevention strategies are key to reducing new cases and protecting those at risk. Both PrEP and PEP are evidence-based solutions that allow individuals to take charge of their health.

The Benefits of PrEP and PEP:

• Highly Effective: Both therapies significantly reduce the risk of HIV when used as prescribed.
• Proactive Prevention: PrEP offers long-term protection, while PEP provides emergency intervention to prevent HIV.
• Confidential Care: At St. Hope Healthcare, we prioritize your privacy with a supportive, judgment-free environment.
• Accessibility: All our locations, including our Bellaire clinic, offers an affordable slide scale and work with your insurance to minimize costs.

How St. Hope Healthcare Supports You

Comprehensive Consultations

We’ll discuss your lifestyle, risk factors and medical history to determine the most suitable prevention method for you.

Regular Testing and Monitoring

For PrEP users, routine HIV and STI testing is essential for continued safety and effectiveness. PEP users should receive follow-up care and testing to confirm the medication has worked as intended.

Education and Guidance

Understanding how PrEP and PEP work and the importance of adhering to the treatment regimen increases the likelihood of patients completing the process and scheduling follow-up testing and care. Our team provides clear instructions, answers your questions and offers ongoing support.

Holistic Care

Prevention isn’t just about medication. We provide counseling, mental health resources and referrals to other essential services to address your overall well-being.

Who Should Consider PrEP and PEP?

While anyone can benefit from these prevention strategies, they’re particularly valuable for individuals at high risk of HIV exposure.

This includes:

• Members of the LGBTQ+ community.
• Sex workers.
• Individuals with multiple partners.
• People who use injectable drugs.
• Healthcare workers are exposed to potential transmission risks.

If you’re unsure whether PrEP or PEP is right for you, our healthcare professionals can help guide your decision.

Get Accessible HIV Prevention in Bellaire

At St. Hope Healthcare, we believe HIV prevention should be accessible to everyone. That’s why we offer flexible appointment scheduling, affordable care and a welcoming, non-judgmental environment. Whether you need a PrEP prescription or urgent PEP services, we’re here to make sure you receive the care you deserve.

Contact us today to schedule an appointment for PrEP or PEP services in Bellaire. Together, we can create a healthier, safer future for you and your loved ones.