PrEP Clinic

PrEP stands for pre-exposure prophylaxis. PrEP is a type of medication that can be taken by HIV negative people before having sex and after having sex to prevent HIV. We run a PrEP Clinic here in the Mater Hospital.

PrEP

PrEP has been shown in many studies to be safe and highly effective at preventing HIV. When taken correctly PrEP has been found to be about 99% effective. PrEP is the newest HIV prevention tool available and is best used in combination with other HIV prevention measures. If you decide to use PrEP, it is important to do this with support from a healthcare professional.

PrEP and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs)

PrEP & other STIs: 

• PrEP does not protect against other STIs for example syphilis, chlamydia, gonorrhoea and hepatitis C.
• PrEP users can combine condoms and PrEP to reduce their risk of contracting other STIs.
• Regular STI testing at least every 3 months is recommended for people taking PrEP.

Vaccinations:

• Vaccination against hepatitis A and B is recommended for all gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men (MSM) and people who inject drugs.
• HPV vaccination is recommended for MSM up to and including 45 years of age to protect against genital warts and HPV-associated cancers.

These vaccinations are available for free through our clinic.

How to book an appointment with the PrEP Clinic

What to expect at the PrEP Clinic

When you arrive at our clinic, please take a number from the ticket machine and have a seat. Your number will be called to register at reception. Once your registration is done, you will be asked have a seat in the waiting area and a medical professional will then take you to one of the consultation rooms.
 
The medical professional will start the consultation by asking some personal questions about your sexual health. This will help evaluate your suitability for PrEP. Routine self-taken swabs and a urine sample are taken for a STI screen, along with a blood test for HIV, Hepatitis A, B, C and Syphilis. A rapid HIV test can be provided on the day also.
 
A prescription is provided for 3 months of PrEP medication. You will need to book a return appointment at reception before leaving the clinic.

Useful information about PrEP

PrEP patient information - online booklet published by the HSE about PrEP.

PrEP eligibility - information published by the HSE to help you check if you are eligible for free PrEP.

If you are eligible for free PrEP you will need a Drug Payment Scheme Card. To register for this card please see the HSE Drug Payment Scheme application here