My PrEP Story: Rob (part 1)

I began my PrEP journey in February 2022, and the fact that this medication is available for free on the NHS is truly a game-changer. Before starting PrEP, I relied on condoms for protection during sexual encounters. However, with the increasing prevalence of individuals proudly declaring “negative, on PrEP” on their Grindr profiles, I found myself in situations where I naively trusted these declarations and opted not to use condoms. A close friend of mine sternly reminded me that my health is my responsibility, emphasizing, “It’s in your hands, so if you can count, count on yourself!” This advice resonated deeply because, realistically, how could I be certain that these individuals were genuinely on PrEP, let alone adhering to their dosages?

Determined to take control of my sexual health, I booked a PrEP appointment at Dean Street. While I appreciate the clinic, the booking process was initially challenging and somewhat off-putting. Nevertheless, at the appointment, the clinician was friendly and provided a thorough explanation of how to take the new blue pill.

Embarking on the daily regimen, I distinctly remember the sense of liberation I felt during intimate moments. The fear that used to accompany sexual encounters became a thing of the past. However, as time went on, I transitioned to an event-based approach. This method appealed to me more, as I questioned the necessity of taking a drug daily when I didn’t engage in sexual activity regularly. Now, I simply take two pills two hours before sex and one pill 24 hours later for the next two days. To ensure I never miss a dosage, I’ve set up reminders in my calendar.

One unexpected benefit of PrEP is how it has facilitated open discussions within our community about sexual preferences, whether that involves condomless sex or using condoms. It has fostered a sense of responsibility and communication regarding our choices.

Although my experience with the clinic’s booking process initially left something to be desired, I want to emphasize that if your first encounter with a clinic isn’t ideal, don’t hesitate to explore other options—it’s worth it in the end. In conclusion, I highly recommend PrEP to everyone. Just remember, even if the initial experience isn’t perfect, the benefits far outweigh any inconvenience. Take charge of your sexual health, and consider PrEP as a valuable tool in that journey.