Once you have started PrEP, it is essential to monitor for HIV and STIs, and check your kidney function on a regular basis.
Although side effects are rare with PrEP, the clinic monitoring will help to identify any potential problems at an early stage.
After 1 month
If it is your first time taking PrEP, you may be offered an appointment after 1 month. This is to make sure you are okay with the medication or if you need any more tests or vaccinations.
Every 3 months (for people taking daily PrEP)
Every 3 months you should have a:
- ‘4th generation’ HIV blood test
- test for other STIs
- some people may need a blood test to check kidney function
For people taking event based PrEP
Your need for an appointment will depend on how often you use PrEP and your potential risk for exposure to HIV and STIs.
Not all people taking event based PrEP will need HIV and STI testing every 3 months. Your PrEP service will discuss this with you and make a follow up plan.
Every 12 months
Every 12 months you should have:
- hepatitis C test - it may need to be done more frequently depending on your circumstances
Home STI and HIV testing
- Some people may be able to have some of their follow up STI and HIV testing via the HSE national home STI testing service. You can discuss this with your PrEP service who will decide if it is suitable for you.
