Sexually transmitted infections (STI)
Most STIs can be treated if they are detected early enough. Find out about using PrEP to prevent HIV infection.
Having sex without a condom puts you at risk of catching a sexually transmitted infection (STI). Many STIs do not have any symptoms, so it is possible to catch them—and pass them on to others—without knowing.
You can get a STI even if you have unprotected sex only once, with one person.
Most STIs can be treated and cured if detected early enough. However, if left undetected and untreated, STIs can affect your health and future fertility.
PrEP and HIV
PrEP stands for 'pre-exposure prophylaxis' and is a medication that can be taken by HIV-negative people to prevent HIV infection. It is fully funded for people who are at higher risk of acquiring HIV. If you have a lower risk of acquiring HIV, you can still take PrEP but you will need to self-fund or access it through the Burnett Foundation Aotearoa.
PrEP does not protect against any other STIs. We recommend still using condoms to protect yourself.
The Burnett Foundation's page about PrEP contains more information to help you decide if PrEP is right for you.
Starting PrEP at Mauri Ora
If you would like to start PrEP, start by booking a PrEP appointment with one of our nurses. During this appointment, we can get things started and explain what is involved. For example, if you're taking PrEP, you'll need to have an STI check (including a blood test) every three months.
After your appointment with the nurse, you'll have an appointment with one of our doctors who can prescribe the PrEP for you.
Make an appointment with Mauri Ora