Key points at a glance
🛡️ Various routes to safety
Condoms, PrEP and U=U protect you, each in their own way.
🧪 Testing provides security
Regular HIV and STI checks show where you stand.
💬 Talking helps
Agreements, consent and knowledge make sex more relaxed.
🧰 Your mix
Choose the method or combination that suits your lifestyle. There isn’t just one way.
What does HIV prevention mean?
HIV prevention includes all measures that prevent transmission. These include condoms, PrEP, protection through therapy/U=U for HIV-positive people, PEP as an emergency after a risk, as well as testing and counselling. Prevention also means providing information, clarifying boundaries and looking out for each other.
The most important protection methods
Condoms
They provide reliable protection against HIV when used correctly. They also reduce the risk of many other STIs. It is important to choose the right size, use water- or silicone-based lubricant, and check the expiry date.
PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis)
With PrEP, you take one tablet a day, either over a longer period as long-term PrEP or specifically around times when you are at risk of HIV exposure as short-term PrEP. It protects against HIV, but does not replace protection against other STIs.
Protection through therapy (U=U)
Anyone who is HIV-positive and receiving effective treatment has an undetectable viral load and does not pass on HIV through sex.
PEP (post-exposure prophylaxis)
PEP refers to emergency medication taken following exposure to HIV. It should be started as soon as possible, and no later than 48 hours after exposure, and is usually taken for 28 days. You can seek help at A&E departments, specialist HIV clinics and AIDS support organisations.
Testing & consulting
Regular HIV and STI tests provide peace of mind. If you have a high turnover of sexual partners, it is advisable to get tested roughly every three to six months. This allows infections to be detected and treated at an early stage. A consultation can help you choose the right prevention strategy.
Everyday life & Community
Prevention takes many forms: condoms, PrEP for HIV-negative people, or protection through treatment – i.e. U=U – for people living with HIV. The key thing is that the choice you make suits your own life.
This helps in everyday life:
- Clear agreements with sexual partners, for example regarding the method of protection currently being used or the most recent test
- Have your own supplies, such as condoms and lubricant, to hand
The following applies within the community: look out for one another, respect each other’s views, and be aware of the risks.
What should you do if there is a risk or uncertainty?
If a condom has broken or you have been exposed to unplanned risk, do not wait – contact a PEP centre as soon as possible; the sooner you do so, the better your chances of success. PEP should be started within 48 hours at the latest. If available, take details of the time and nature of the exposure with you.
If you are unsure which method is right for you, seeking advice can help. AIDS support organisations, checkpoints and public health authorities offer personalised advice on this, usually anonymously and free of charge. An HIV-specialist practice can also help you choose the right method of protection. This will help you determine which method best suits your personal circumstances.
Frequently asked questions
What exactly does HIV prevention involve?
These include condoms, PrEP, protection through treatment (or ‘U=U’) for people who are HIV-positive, PEP as an emergency measure following a high-risk exposure, as well as testing and counselling. Prevention also means providing information, establishing boundaries and looking out for one another.
What is the difference between PrEP and ‘Undetectable = Untransmittable’ (U=U)?
PrEP is for HIV-negative people and is taken daily or around the time of high-risk exposure to prevent infection. Protection through treatment, or U=U, applies to people who are already HIV-positive: those receiving successful treatment have an undetectable viral load and do not pass on HIV during sex.
How soon after being exposed to a risk do I need to act in order to receive PEP?
As soon as possible, or within 48 hours at the latest. The sooner PEP is started, the better the chances of success. You can seek help at A&E departments, specialist HIV clinics and AIDS support organisations.
Where can I get anonymous and free advice on the right method of contraception?
AIDS support organisations, checkpoints and public health authorities offer face-to-face advice, usually anonymously and free of charge. A clinic specialising in HIV can also help you choose the right method of protection, though this service is not anonymous or free of charge.
