Ask The Nurse!

Lauren Smith, FNP-C, is a nurse practitioner working at the Center for Sexual Health and Wellness at the Livingston County Department of Health.  She’s here to answer YOUR health questions – feel free to send them to sexed@geneseo.edu!  Anonymized questions and answers will be posted here on a regular basis.

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Q:  I had sex last night, and the condom broke. I’m worried. Is there anything I can do after unprotected sex to lower my HIV risk?

A:  If you are concerned about contracting HIV after an exposure, PEP (post-exposure prophylaxis) may be an option for you. This is a medication that should be started as soon as possible (but always within 72 hours of exposure) to decrease the chances of contracting HIV. If you are prescribed PEP, you will need to take the medication for 28 days and you will be closely monitored by a provider. PEP is available for emergency situations and you should seek care as soon as possible after exposure at an urgent care or emergency room if you think you need it.

PEP Hotline – Outside NYC: 844-PEP4NOW (844-737-4669)