PrEP liberates people to be on top of their medical care.
I’m a professional piercer and tattoo artist – I use needles often. After some accidental pokes when starting out, my mentor taught me about PrEP to keep me and my clients safe.
It was easier than I thought to get on PrEP at my local Planned Parenthood. I get a full panel of STI checks every 6 months. Each day I take my PrEP pill, just like my vitamins.
PrEP isn’t an afterthought: it’s a preventative to keep me healthy. PrEP can prevent me from getting HIV if I’m exposed to it at my job.
PrEP should be taught in sex ed class with other ways to take care of your body. Being aware of my STI status through the required checks helps me take responsibility for my health.
Now when I lead piercing classes, I make sure my mentees know about PrEP. This medication means you’re in control of your health, whether you need to be safe with sex or around needles.
I want to shine a light on preventative care that can help so many people. Having more conversations about this is lifesaving!