Health management isn’t always pretty, and sometimes it’s downright uncomfortable depending on where you go, what they look at, and who’s looking up where, ya know? But it’s part of our reality as gay men that we are cautious when it comes to our “coloring” health, and everyone looks at me like I am crazy when I talk about this new one, so I’d rather be open and healthy about it and learn you queens a thing or two.
So here it is, the truth about my journey with the Apretude shot and going off of daily prep. for the people in the back, Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is a medication that helps prevent HIV infection in people who are at high risk of exposure to the virus. Meaning most of us who are negative, take prep to stop transmission. Talk to your doctor…
The Two-Month Shot (a.k.a. The Butt Bruiser)
As of now, I’m on the every-two-month version of the shot. It goes into your butt, and let me tell you, it burns a bit. I also have sensitive skin, so I do brush some afterward.
The actual position they put you in, lying on your stomach with your knees bent, (jk) doesn’t bother me. But the aftermath? Yeah, not my favorite. Still, I stay consistent with it because it works. The peace of mind of not having to think about taking my pill daily is worth the tradeoff. It just make thins easier to be honest.
The Six-Month Option
I recently learned there’s also a six-month shot available. Instead of the butt, it’s injected into your stomach. From what I’ve heard, it skips the soreness and bruising that I’ve gotten used to with the two-month version.
That’s where my head is right now: why keep bruising my butt every other month if I can just take one shot twice a year? My next appointment might be the moment I finally make that switch, so be sure to follow along, and I will provide information about the post-shot activity as soon as it happens.
Sign up for the Newsletter!
I don’t believe it’s available just yet, so hold back a bit before going for it.
Which is Better for a Busy Person? Daily Pill vs. Freedom
Before the shot, the daily pill was fine; it didn’t really bother me too much in the occasional circumstance. I would miss a pill or two, which is slightly risky. But once I started with the shot, the freedom of not having to think about it every single day was incredible. Even if it comes with a sore backside, I can’t deny the relief of knowing it’s handled. That’s why I’ve stuck with it, bumps and bruises included.
Shoutout to Midway Specialty Care
The truth is, a big part of why this whole process feels doable is because of where I go. Midway Specialty Care has been nothing short of amazing in getting me on prevention the moment I got into Wilton. And Dr. Gomez? She’s the kind of doctor you want on your side, supportive, genuine, and someone who truly cares not just about your health, but also your confidence and happiness. That kind of energy makes a tough process feel lighter. Luckily, things haven’t been bad at all since getting here to Fort Lauderdale.
Wrapping It Up
So here’s the deal: the two-month shot works, but it leaves me a little sore. The six-month option sounds like it might be my golden ticket. Either way, I’m sticking with one of the other because at the end of the day its just easier.
And if you’re considering it too? My advice is simple: find the option that makes your life easier, and make sure you’ve got a doctor who actually cares about you, not just your chart.
