PrEP, PEP & ART: Understanding HIV Prevention and Treatment in Puerto Vallarta (PV), Mexico

PrEP, PEP & ART: Your Guide to HIV Prevention and Treatment in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

Ahhh, Puerto Vallarta — where the sunsets sizzle, the cocktails flow freely, and the LGBTQ+ community shines brighter than the Pacific sun. Whether you're here for a weekend getaway, an extended stay, or calling PV your new tropical home, it’s always a good time to talk about sexual health — especially when it comes to HIV prevention and treatment.

Let’s break down PrEP, PEP, and ART, and how to access them locally — so you can enjoy paradise smartly and safely.

What’s the Tea on PrEP?

• PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis) is your daily shield of sexy protection. This once-a-day pill dramatically reduces your chances of getting HIV — by up to 99% when taken consistently.
• Who's It For?
  • You’re sexually active and want peace of mind
  • You have multiple partners or enjoy condomless fun
  • You want to be proactive about your health (we love that for you!)
• Can You Get PrEP in PV?
  • Absolutely! Puerto Vallarta has become a hub for LGBTQ+ health, and that includes easy access to PrEP at low or no cost through local clinics and NGOs.
• Hot Tip: Check out SETAC, CAPASITS PV, and PULSE CLINIC (Social Enterprise) — all offer confidential testing and PrEP services (often for free or low cost!). PULSE CLINIC, with its global reputation for LGBTQ+ inclusive care, has brought its expertise to PV with a focus on sexual health, HIV prevention, and community care.
• You can also ask local LGBTQ+ health advocates or check the community bulletin at places like La Noche or The Palm Cabaret.

PEP: The "Oh Sh*t" Pill

Had a risky encounter? Condom broke? Forgot your PrEP? Enter: PEP (Post-Exposure Prophylaxis), your 72-hour emergency window of opportunity.

• What Is It?
  • PEP is a 28-day course of antiretroviral medications that can prevent HIV infection after possible exposure. But here’s the kicker: you need to start it within 72 hours — and the sooner, the better.
• Where to Get PEP in PV?
  • Hospital Regional de Puerto Vallarta
  • IMSS or ISSSTE hospitals (for those with Mexican insurance)
  • PULSE CLINIC (Social Enterprise) and some private clinics — call ahead to confirm availability
• PEP may not be widely advertised, so be clear and firm when asking for it. Say: “Necesito PEP, tuve una exposición al VIH.” (I need PEP, I had potential exposure to HIV.)

ART: Living Fully, Living Well

If you or someone you know is living with HIV, ART (Antiretroviral Therapy) is the gold standard treatment that can help you live a long, healthy, and beautiful life. With an undetectable viral load, you also can’t transmit HIV to others (U=U!).

ART in Puerto Vallarta

Mexico offers free ART through public health services, especially for residents and nationals. For visitors or expats, local NGOs and clinics can help you navigate care, access meds, or refer you to private providers.

Pro Tip: SETAC, CAPASITS, and PULSE CLINIC (Social Enterprise) are all compassionate resources for ongoing care and support. Many staff members are bilingual and understand the unique needs of the LGBTQ+ community — especially for international visitors and digital nomads navigating a new healthcare system.

Local Resources Snapshot

Be Bold. Be Safe. Be YOU.

Puerto Vallarta isn’t just a vacation destination — it’s a thriving, inclusive, and sex-positive community. And part of that magic? Taking care of ourselves and each other.

Whether you’re dancing on the beach, falling in love, or just living your best life — remember that HIV prevention and treatment are not just available — they’re accessible. No shame. No stigma. Just information, empowerment, and tropical freedom.

Puerto Vallarta is paradise. Let’s keep it safe, sexy, and stigma-free — together.