PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis) is a preventative tool in the form of a daily pill for individuals who are HIV negative that is highly effective at preventing HIV transmission when taken regularly or on-demand. PrEP is taken in advance of possible exposure to HIV (such as engaging in sexual activity) as a preventative measure. Messaging around access to PrEP often centres the experiences and health disparities of cisgender gay, bi, queer, and other men who have sex with men. However, eligibility for PrEP is largely determined by risks and behaviours rather than an individual’s gender identity or sexual orientation.
When considering taking PrEP as a trans or gender diverse person, it is important to recognize the unique factors that can make access challenging. This includes such considerations as:
- interactivity between hormone replacement therapy and PrEP;
- structural barriers trans and gender diverse people face due to an overall misunderstanding of trans health among health care providers; and
- the often overlooked risk of HIV transmission among trans and gender diverse communities.
To learn more about PrEP and other considerations for the prevention of HIV transmission, visit PrEP Alberta.
