On PrEP, you have a check-up every 3 months: an HIV test, a short chat about how things are going, and a new supply of pills. Some visits also include a kidney test and an STI screen.
It is usually a quick visit, and it keeps PrEP safe and working. Here's what happens at a PrEP follow-up, why each test matters, and how to plan your refill in Pattaya, even if you are only visiting.
Why PrEP needs a check-up every 3 months
PrEP is a prevention medicine, so you take it while you are well. The regular visit is how you and your doctor make sure it stays that way.
There are three main reasons for the 3-monthly rhythm:
- To confirm you are still HIV-negative. PrEP is very effective, but missed doses happen. If HIV is ever found, you need full treatment, not PrEP.
- To keep an eye on your kidneys. PrEP is safe for most people, but it can affect kidney function in a small number.
- To pick up other infections early. PrEP does not prevent other STIs, and many have no symptoms.
UK guidance from BASHH and BHIVA on the use of PrEP recommends an HIV test every 3 months for people with new or multiple partners, along with regular STI screening. Most PrEP services worldwide follow a similar pattern.
What happens at a PrEP follow-up visit
A PrEP follow-up visit is usually much shorter than your first appointment. The doctor already knows your history, so it is mostly about checking in.
Step by step
- A quick chat. How you are taking PrEP, any missed doses, any side effects and any changes in your sex life or health.
- An HIV test. This happens at every visit, before your next supply.
- Other tests as advised. A kidney blood test, an STI screen, or a pregnancy test if that applies to you.
- Your refill. Once the HIV test is negative, you get your next supply of PrEP.
The visit is usually quick, depending on which tests you need and how quickly results come back. If you'd like to know how the HIV test itself works, see our guide to HIV testing in Pattaya.
Which PrEP tests are done, and how often
| Test | How often | Why |
|---|---|---|
| HIV test | Every visit | PrEP is only for HIV-negative people |
| STI screen | Often every 3 months | PrEP doesn't prevent other STIs |
| Kidney function | Yearly or more, as advised | Checks PrEP is safe for you |
| Hepatitis B | If not immune | Affects which schedule suits you |
| Pregnancy test | If relevant | Helps plan your care |
How often your kidneys are checked depends on your age and health. The BASHH/BHIVA guidance suggests a yearly check for younger people with normal results, and more frequent checks for those aged 40 or over or with other risks. Our guide to PrEP and your kidneys explains more.
The STI screen matters just as much. Infections such as chlamydia, gonorrhoea and syphilis often cause no symptoms, so regular checks catch them early; read more in PrEP and STIs.
A chance to review your plan
Each follow-up is also a good moment to ask whether your PrEP plan still fits your life. Your sex life, travel or health may have changed since your last visit.
You might talk about switching between daily and on-demand PrEP, taking a break, or stopping safely. Our guide to daily and on-demand 2-1-1 PrEP explains the two schedules, and a doctor will help you decide which one suits you now.
How to prepare for your PrEP refill visit
A little planning makes the visit quicker. Try to book a few days before your pills run out, so you are never left without cover.
Bring these with you:
- Your current PrEP pack or a photo of the box, so the doctor knows which medicine you take.
- Any recent test results, especially if you were tested at home or in another country.
- A list of other medicines and supplements you use.
- Notes on missed doses or side effects, if you had any.
Bringing results from home
If you had an HIV test or blood tests before your trip, bring a copy in English or a clear photo. A doctor will look at the date and type of test and decide whether it can be used, or whether a fresh test is needed today.
What if you are late for your check-up?
Life gets busy, and sometimes the 3 months slip past. If you still have pills, keep taking them as usual and book a visit soon.
If you ran out and stopped, don't simply restart from an old pack. Talk to a doctor first, because you may need an HIV test before restarting, and the lead-in time can start again. Our guide to what to do after a missed PrEP dose covers this in detail.
Refilling PrEP in Pattaya as a visitor
Many people come to Pattaya already on PrEP from home. If your supply is running low, or your 3 months are up during your stay, you can usually arrange a refill here after a consultation and an HIV test.
A doctor will assess your situation, check your previous results if you have them, and agree how much you need until your next check-up. Planning ahead helps: our tips on PrEP for your Thailand trip and on bringing your own PrEP into Thailand explain how to pack enough.
Keeping track of your next visit
Put your next check-up in your calendar on the day you get your refill. The PrEP planner can help you work out key dates and add reminders.
Your PrEP follow-up in Pattaya
Our PrEP follow-up visits are confidential and straightforward, whether you live in Pattaya, Jomtien or Naklua or are here for a few weeks. For the full picture of starting and staying on PrEP here, read getting PrEP in Pattaya.
If you are starting from scratch, see the tests needed before starting PrEP. For the cost of a follow-up visit and supply, check our PrEP prices in Pattaya.
Ready to book your refill? Message us on LINE or WhatsApp with the date your pills run out, and we'll help you plan your check-up.
Frequently asked questions
Why do I need an HIV test every 3 months on PrEP?
PrEP is only for people who don't have HIV. Regular tests make sure any infection is found early, so you can switch to full treatment and avoid drug resistance.
Can I get a PrEP refill without a new HIV test?
Usually not. Most services need a recent negative HIV test before giving a new supply, because that is what keeps PrEP safe to use.
Do I need a kidney test at every PrEP visit?
Not always. Many people have a kidney check once a year, while others need it more often depending on their age, results and health.
How long does a PrEP follow-up visit take?
It is usually much quicker than the first visit. The exact time depends on which tests you need and how quickly results come back.
What if my 3 months run out while I'm travelling?
Keep taking PrEP if you still have pills, and arrange a visit with a PrEP service where you are. A doctor can test you and refill your supply.