Sexual health is a vital aspect of In recent years, PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) has emerged as a significant tool in HIV prevention. This medication, taken before potential exposure to HIV, can reduce the risk of infection through sex by 99 percent when used as directed.
While PrEP does not protect against other sexually transmitted infections (STIs), it offers a proactive approach to sexual health, especially for those at higher risk. This includes individuals who engage in unprotected sex, have partners with HIV, or have been diagnosed with an STI in the past six months. Notably, gay and bisexual men account for 67 percent of new HIV cases, highlighting the importance of prevention options like PrEP.
Personal Journeys with PrEP
Brandon Kyle Goodman a writer and sexual wellness advocate, shares his experience with PrEP. ‘I take PrEP because it’s an important part of how I take care of my sexual health—and because someone I love reminded me that I have an option they didn’t,’ he says. Goodman has been on PrEP for six or seven years and credits a friend living with HIV for encouraging him to start. ‘This knowledge felt like a gift: to them, to me, and to the people I share intimacy with,’ he adds.
Goodman views PrEP as part of a broader sexual health toolkit that includes condoms, barriers, and regular testing. ‘For me, it’s not about fear-mongering,’ he explains. ‘It’s about being practical, informed, and honest about how people actually have sex.’ PrEP has influenced his emotional and mental approach to sex, helping him move beyond the fear instilled by early messaging about HIV.
PrEP as a Tool for Sexual Health
Asia Sullivan a physician assistant based in West Hollywood, Calif., emphasizes the importance of open conversations about sexual health. ‘In the clinic, we start with simple, universal questions: Are you sexually active? With who? When was your last HIV test? Do you know that there’s medication that can help prevent HIV?’ she says. Sullivan appreciates this status-neutral approach, which doesn’t single anyone out and reflects the reality that many eligible for PrEP aren’t on it.
Sullivan sees PrEP as a way to take charge of sexual health, reducing uncertainty and allowing individuals to focus on connection and pleasure. She stresses that avoiding HIV is still important, as an HIV diagnosis can affect various aspects of life. ‘PrEP is one way to help reduce that risk,’ she notes. Sullivan also points out that risk factors vary by location and situation, highlighting the need for personalized healthcare advice.
Advocating for PrEP
Todd Baratz a psychotherapist specializing in relationships and sexuality, has been taking PrEP since it became available. ‘It’s one way to be proactive about protecting my sexual health,’ he says. Baratz sees PrEP as a practical tool that supports self-care and responsibility in intimate relationships. ‘It’s part of being mindful about the decisions we make and the responsibility we carry with intimacy,’ he explains.
Baratz’s experience resonates with his clients, who often navigate similar concerns about sex, relationships, and risk. He encourages them to consider PrEP as a baseline for prevention and intentional sexual health management. ‘For me, it’s a baseline: prevention and being more intentional about my sexual health,’ he adds.
Marcus Tellez an HIV specialist, addresses common misconceptions about PrEP. Many assume they’re not at risk, particularly heterosexual individuals who believe HIV prevention doesn’t apply to them. ‘HIV prevention should be for anyone who’s having sex—not just for people who identify as gay or queer,’ Dr. Tellez emphasizes. He encourages open dialogue about sexual habits and HIV prevention, empowering patients to advocate for themselves.
Dr. Tellez believes patients should feel comfortable asking their healthcare providers about PrEP without disclosing every detail of their sex life. ‘Any good clinician should be willing to have that conversation,’ he says. He advocates for creating a judgment-free space where patients can feel informed and supported in their choices.
The Sabrina Zohar Show podcast host Sabrina Zohar shares her perspective on sexual health and HIV prevention. Growing up during the AIDS crisis, she learned the importance of safe sex from her family and friends in the drag queen community. ‘Now I think we can take the power back and explore sexuality,’ she says. Zohar encourages her listeners to protect themselves against HIV and other STIs while enjoying their sexual experiences.
Zohar highlights the importance of understanding one’s sexual preferences through experience. ‘You have every opportunity to explore your sexuality. If we can do it safely, then I think it’s a win-win,’ she adds. Alongside barrier techniques like condoms, PrEP offers another tool for proactive sexual health management.
Talking to your healthcare provider about HIV prevention options is crucial. Understanding your options and making informed decisions can help you take control of your sexual health and reduce the risk of HIV infection.
