If you have been sexually assaulted
What is PEP, and do I need it?
PEP (post-exposure prophylaxis) is a 28-day course of HIV medicine taken after a possible exposure, to stop the virus from establishing an infection. It must be started within 72 hours, and the earlier it is started, the better it works.
You may need PEP after:
- Vaginal or anal sex without a condom, or a condom that broke or slipped, with a partner who has HIV or whose status you don't know
- Sharing needles or injecting equipment
- A needlestick or sharps injury
Not every exposure needs PEP. The doctor will assess the risk with you, including your partner's HIV status and whether they are on treatment, and recommend what's right.
Why after-hours access matters
Exposures often happen at night and over weekends, when GP practices are closed. VDOC doctors consult early, late, on Sundays and on public holidays, so you don't lose hours of the 72-hour window waiting for Monday.
Getting PEP through VDOC
Book the earliest slot
Book online or on WhatsApp and choose the soonest available doctor. Note the time of the exposure.
Risk assessment
The doctor asks about the exposure, your health and any medication, confidentially and without judgement.
Prescription & testing
If PEP is appropriate, you get a prescription plus advice on baseline and follow-up HIV testing.
While you are taking PEP
- Take every dose, at the same time each day, for the full 28 days.
- Use condoms until your follow-up HIV tests confirm you are HIV-negative.
- Go for follow-up HIV testing as the doctor advises.
- Contact a doctor if you develop a rash, fever, yellow eyes or severe tummy pain.