PEP
PEP (Post Exposure Prophylaxis) can be a lifesaver when things don't go quite as planned, such as condom breakage.
PEP is a relatively effective treatment that reduces the risk of HIV transmission, but it is not a sure protection. The criteria for PEP are that an HIV-negative person has had unprotected sex with an HIV-positive person who knows their status and is not treating their HIV. The sex needs to have happened in the last 36 hours. The sooner you get PEP, the better.
PEP is available at Venhälsan at Södersjukhuset in Stockholm and at the emergency department at Huddinge University Hospital. There is not always a great deal of knowledge about PEP in healthcare, but in brief it works like this. You go to Venhälsan at Södersjukhuset or to the emergency room at Huddinge University Hospital. When you talk to the doctor or nurse, you describe what happened and that you want to receive PEP treatment. If they try to refuse you even though you have had unprotected sex with a person living with untreated HIV in the last 36 hours, try to stand your ground. Usually, healthcare is restrictive about PEP and many clinics lack knowledge about PEP.
It is routine to take an HIV test on the spot, you can of course say no if you want but it is good to take. You will then be given two medications to take for 30 days, morning and evening. The medication is antiemetic and some people feel a moderate nausea an hour after taking the medication, it can be alleviated by eating something a while before so that the tablets are not taken on an empty stomach. You will then be tested for HIV six weeks, three months and six months after completing treatment. The treatment is very effective and can reduce anxiety, although it does not protect to 100 % and is not a substitute for condom use.
HIV infection-free
HIV that has been treated cannot be transmitted. If you have had sex with a person living with HIV who is not infected, PEP is not relevant.
