Young people at risk: PrEP doesn’t prevent pregnancy!

Gibson Mhaka

THERE is a need to emphasise strengthening sexual health education for Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) users, particularly young people who may be unaware that PrEP only prevents HIV infection, not pregnancy, a Zimbabwe National Family Council (ZNFPC) official has said.

Speaking to B-Metro during the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF) at their exhibition stand, ZNFPC marketing and communications officer, Mission Gwafa said this lack of awareness can lead to unintended pregnancies.

“Here at ZITF we are offering a number of services, including all contraceptive methods. We also offer PEP and PrEP. There is high demand for PrEP, especially among young people between 15 and 29 years old. The high demand for PrEP is a positive development for HIV prevention and we appreciate the interest. However, it is concerning that some young people who use PrEP may not be taking precautions against other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and unintended pregnancy,” said Gwafa.

He said more evidence of PrEP knowledge, willingness and distribution preferences is required for scale-up among young people at-risk.

“Because PrEP itself only prevents HIV infection, it reduces the chance of contracting HIV. We need to inform people seeking PrEP that it does not protect against other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) or unintended pregnancy.

“Therefore, education and awareness campaigns are crucial, especially for the younger generation. We’ve seen a rise in both STIs and teenage pregnancies, which suggests young people are not using protective measures. Condoms are readily available and information is accessible, yet some choose not to use condoms due to the recent focus on PrEP,” said Gwafa.