PrEP Initiation August 2026

Introducing PrEP: Your Path to HIV Prevention

What is PrEP? Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) is a highly effective medication that can significantly reduce your risk of contracting HIV. When taken as prescribed, PrEP can lower your risk by over 90%.

Our PrEP Initiation Offers:

Comprehensive HIV Screening: Before starting PrEP, we conduct a full spectrum sexual health assessment, including HIV testing, Hepatitis B and C screening, sexually transmitted infection (STI) testing (e.g., chlamydia, gonorrhoea) and renal function (kidney and liver function tests – which will have ongoing oversight and support from The Northern Clinic to maintain your renal health during PrEP course).

PrEP Consultation & Prescription: Our experienced team will discuss your individual risk factors and answer all your questions about PrEP. We’ll determine if PrEP is right for you and provide a personalised prescription, and if you’re suitable you will get your medication straight away. We’ll discuss how to regulate taking your medication and potential side effects.

Ongoing Support & Monitoring: Your repeat prescriptions will be handled through the Northern where you can book an appointment through your personal health record. We offer ongoing support to ensure you’re successfully using PrEP. Regular follow-up appointments are available for STI retesting and addressing any concerns you may have.

Who is PrEP for? PrEP can be taken by anyone of any gender or sexuality and may be an option if you are not living with HIV, are sexually active and at risk of HIV exposure (e.g., inconsistent condom use, multiple sexual partners).

What if I need PEP? PEP (Post-exposure prophylaxis) is emergency HIV medication accessed from A&E or by phoning your local sexual health clinic. It is a 28-day course that must be started within 72 hours of potential exposure and is more effective the sooner it is taken.

Sexual health testing: If you just need a sexual health test, come along or book on our regular clinic days: Wednesdays 16:00–20:00, Fridays 16:00–20:00 or Saturdays 11:00–15:00.

Free condoms and lube: You can order free condoms and lube discreetly posted to your home or access free Safer Sex Packs from venues around Manchester’s Gay Village.