For MSM in a monogamous relationship at a routine health visit, which statement is true regarding HIV prophylaxis?

For MSM in a monogamous relationship at a routine health visit, which statement is true regarding HIV prophylaxis?

• A. Pre-exposure prophylaxis is recommended
• B. Post-exposure prophylaxis is routinely required
• C. There is no need for pre- or post-exposure HIV prophylaxis
• D. Prophylaxis is only advised after confirmed exposure

Answer: (C)

In HIV prevention, protection is tailored to risk. Pre-exposure prophylaxis is intended for people with ongoing substantial risk of acquiring HIV, such as sexually active MSM with multiple partners, inconsistent condom use, or a serodiscordant relationship, as well as people who inject drugs. In a monogamous relationship where both partners are HIV-negative and there are no new exposures, the ongoing risk is low, so routine PrEP isn’t indicated. Post-exposure prophylaxis is used after a potential exposure within the past 72 hours and should be started promptly; it is not something you would routinely give when there hasn’t been a recent exposure. Therefore, at a routine visit for this patient, there is no need for pre- or post-exposure HIV prophylaxis. If risk factors change—such as a partner becoming HIV-positive, new or additional partners, or a potential exposure—reassess and consider PrEP or PEP as appropriate. Regular HIV testing and risk-reduction counseling remain important even in low-risk relationships.

In HIV prevention, protection is tailored to risk. Pre-exposure prophylaxis is intended for people with ongoing substantial risk of acquiring HIV, such as sexually active MSM with multiple partners, inconsistent condom use, or a serodiscordant relationship, as well as people who inject drugs. In a monogamous relationship where both partners are HIV-negative and there are no new exposures, the ongoing risk is low, so routine PrEP isn’t indicated. Post-exposure prophylaxis is used after a potential exposure within the past 72 hours and should be started promptly; it is not something you would routinely give when there hasn’t been a recent exposure. Therefore, at a routine visit for this patient, there is no need for pre- or post-exposure HIV prophylaxis. If risk factors change—such as a partner becoming HIV-positive, new or additional partners, or a potential exposure—reassess and consider PrEP or PEP as appropriate. Regular HIV testing and risk-reduction counseling remain important even in low-risk relationships.