Prep

Pre-exposure prophylaxis

South Side Help Center provides education, navigation, and access to PrEP, a highly effective medication that helps prevent HIV before exposure. PrEP is available as a daily pill or a long‑acting injection, giving you options that fit your lifestyle and health needs.

Do You Know What PrEP Is?

PrEP (Pre‑Exposure Prophylaxis) is a medication taken by people who do not have HIV to reduce their chances of getting it. When taken consistently, PrEP is one of the most powerful HIV prevention tools available.

What’s the Difference Between the Pill and the Injection?

PrEP Pill: Taken once a day. It works by building protective levels of medication in your body.
PrEP Injection: Given by a healthcare provider every two months. It’s a good option for people who prefer not to take a daily pill or want a more private, low‑maintenance method.

How Do You Know Which Option Is Right for You?

Our team helps you understand your choices, answer your questions, and connect you to trusted providers—such as AHF Healthcare Centers—for appointments, lab work, and ongoing care. Together, we help you choose the PrEP option that fits your health, schedule, and comfort level.

Whether you’re exploring PrEP for the first time or looking to switch methods, SSHC offers stigma‑free, culturally responsive support every step of the way.

Learn More About PrEP

South Side Help Center is committed to helping you understand your PrEP options and navigate the process from start to finish. Whether you’re just learning about PrEP or ready to get started, our team provides clear information, supportive guidance, and connections to trusted medical providers.

Educational Resources

Explore these trusted sources to learn more about how PrEP works, who it’s for, and what to expect:

There are several PrEP options available, depending on your needs and lifestyle:

Daily PrEP pills — the most common option for many people.
On‑demand PrEP pills — an option for gay and bisexual men who take PrEP only around the time of sex.
Injectable PrEP every 2 months — cabotegravir, prescribed under the brand name Apretude at AHF.
Injectable PrEP every 6 months — lenacapavir, a newer long‑acting option.

How SSHC Helps You Access PrEP

Our team walks with you through every step of the process:

Start the Conversation We talk with you about your needs, answer questions, and help you understand whether PrEP is right for you.
Get Connected to Care We provide a PrEP referral to an AHF Wellness Center, where you can meet with a medical provider for labs, evaluation, and a prescription.
Access Your Medication Once approved, you can pick up your PrEP prescription through AHF’s pharmacy, which offers additional assistance programs to help make PrEP affordable.
Ongoing Support SSHC stays connected with you to help with follow‑up appointments, questions, and staying on your prevention plan.

Have Questions or Need Help Getting Started?

Contact our Program Director: Candise Green 📧 cgreen@southsidehelp.org 📞 773‑739‑8704