Sexual Health Prevention

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) can be prevented with accurate knowledge, appropriate medication, and safer sexual practices. Prevention not only protects your own health but also that of your partner. PairLife Clinic offers multiple prevention options, including DoxyPEP, PrEP, PEP, and other medical strategies tailored to different risks and lifestyles.

Prevention with Medication
(Syphilis, Gonorrhea, Chlamydia)

PairLife Clinic offers medication-based prevention to reduce the risk of bacterial STIs such as syphilis, gonorrhea, and chlamydia.

This approach is commonly referred to as DoxyPEP (doxycycline post-exposure prophylaxis), and involves taking doxycycline shortly after sexual exposure.

When used appropriately, DoxyPEP can significantly lower the risk of acquiring syphilis and chlamydia, and may provide partial protection against gonorrhea.

Effectiveness may vary, and antimicrobial resistance remains an important consideration.Patients are advised to consult with our medical team to determine suitability and optimal timing.

HIV Prevention Medication

PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis)

PrEP involves taking oral medication daily to prevent HIV infection in individuals who are HIV-negative. When taken consistently, PrEP can reduce the risk of acquiring HIV through sexual exposure by more than 99%. PrEP is recommended for individuals who have ongoing sexual exposure risks, such as having multiple partners, starting a new sexual relationship, or engaging in condom-less intercourse.

Before starting PrEP, an HIV test is required to confirm negative status. Regular follow-up testing for HIV and kidney function is recommended every 3 months to ensure safety and continued protection. When taken appropriately, PrEP is considered highly effective and well-tolerated.

PEP (Post-Exposure Prophylaxis)

PEP is an emergency HIV prevention strategy intended for situations in which HIV exposure is suspected or confirmed. Treatment should begin as soon as possible—ideally within 72 hours—as earlier initiation improves effectiveness. A 28-day course of antiviral medication is typically required, and medical evaluation is recommended before and during treatment to monitor safety and treatment response.

Before starting PEP, HIV testing will be performed to confirm negative status. Follow-up HIV testing is required after completion of the course because HIV infection cannot be ruled out until the window period has passed. Blood tests may also be recommended to monitor liver and kidney function throughout treatment.

PEP is intended for unexpected or isolated exposures and is not a long-term prevention method. Individuals with frequent or ongoing exposure risks may be better suited for PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis), which provides continuous protection before exposure.

Herpes Prevention

Herpes infections can cause recurrent outbreaks, discomfort, and viral shedding even when no symptoms are present. Antiviral medications such as famciclovir or valacyclovir may be prescribed to reduce the frequency and severity of outbreaks. Suppressive therapy can also reduce asymptomatic viral shedding, which lowers the risk of transmission to sexual partners during both oral and genital contact.

Depending on clinical presentation, antivirals can be used in two main ways:

• Daily suppressive therapy, which provides continuous protection against outbreaks and transmission
• Episodic therapy, taken at the onset of symptoms to shorten duration and lessen severity

Suppressive therapy may be particularly useful for individuals with frequent recurrences, those in a long-term sexual relationship, or for patients who wish to reduce transmission risk to a partner. Consulting with our medical team can help determine the most appropriate approach based on recurrence patterns, lifestyle, and sexual activity.

Sexual prevention

Prevention Before Sexual Activity

Awareness and communication with your partner about your health status is essential. Asymptomatic infections are common, so regular testing—especially if you have multiple partners or start a new relationship—is recommended every 3–6 months.

Prevention During Sexual Activity

Using condoms correctly from start to finish provides significant protection against many STIs. For oral or anal sex, appropriate barrier methods such as condoms or dental dams are recommended, as these exposures also carry risk. Using water-based lubricants can reduce friction and lower infection risk.

Prevention After Sexual Activity

Maintaining genital hygiene after sex can help reduce risk, but avoid internal douching as it may disrupt natural flora and increase susceptibility. Monitor for any symptoms such as unusual discharge, pain, or irritation in the following days and consider testing if concerns arise.

Other Practical Prevention Measures

• Avoid sexual activity when you are unwell or have mucosal irritation.
• Be mindful of small skin breaks or abrasions which can increase infection risk.
• Regularly check for genital abnormalities during routine hygiene practices to catch early signs.
• Consider regular preventive check-ups for you and your partner as part of a health routine.

Walk-ins welcome