Interview: Talking Doxy-PEP and STI Prevention with Hey Fella’s Dr Cris
- Raine Lovebright
- Sep 2
- 5 min read
In recent years, a new prevention strategy called Doxy-PEP has been making waves in queer health circles. Short for doxycycline post-exposure prophylaxis, it’s a smart way to lower your risk of certain bacterial STIs after sex, basically, an extra layer of protection in your sexual health toolkit. Period.
With patients asking me about it with increased frequency and curious about how it works, who it’s for, and whether it’s actually as handy as it sounds, I sat down with Dr Cris Quitral, Medical Director at Hey Fella, a healthcare service dedicated to LGBTQ+ folks.
Together, we spilled the tea on what Doxy-PEP really does, who it’s a total win for, and how it slots into a smarter, more thought out approach to sexual wellbeing.
What is Doxy-PEP and how does it work?
I asked Dr Cris Quitral to explain exactly what Doxy-PEP is and how it works. He told me: “Doxy-PEP (Doxycycline Post-Exposure Prophylaxis) is basically taking an antibiotic after high-risk sexual events to reduce your chances of getting certain STIs, namely syphilis and chlamydia. This must be taken within 72 hours (3 days) of the high-risk event to help reduce the risk of infection.”
How does Doxy-PEP differ from taking antibiotics for an existing infection?
Next, I wanted to understand how Doxy-PEP is different from the antibiotics people take when they already have an STI. Dr Cris explained: “Think of it like this: treatment is when you take antibiotics because you already have an established infection. Doxy‑PEP is for prevention - taking it after sex to stop an STI from even starting. It’s prophylactic, not curative.”
Where did the idea come from and is it effective?
Curious about the origins and evidence behind Doxy-PEP, I asked Dr Cris where the idea came from and if it actually works. He told me: “The concept came from studies exploring post‑sex antibiotic use among high-risk groups. In Australia, the Australasian Society for HIV Medicine (ASHM) released a Consensus Statement supporting Doxy‑PEP among gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (GBMSM), citing impressive STI reductions of infections of syphilis and chlamydia by upwards of 70%.”
Who might benefit, and how do they know if it’s right?
I also wanted to know which people might benefit most from Doxy-PEP. Dr Cris explained:
“If you’re GBMSM with recent positive STIs - like a syphilis diagnosis within the last year - and participate in high risk events, you would be considered the type of individual who benefits most. But it really depends on your sexual health profile and risk factors. Chatting with a healthcare provider like Hey Fella is key to understand if this is right for you and how to take it safely.”
What’s the ideal time window after sex to take Doxy-PEP?
Timing is critical, so I asked about the best window to take the medication. Dr Cris said: “DoxyPEP must be taken up to 72 hours (3 days) after the high risk event. That means one dose can cover multiple encounters over a 72 hour period.”
Can you take it after every condomless encounter, or are there limits?
I wondered if people could take Doxy-PEP frequently. Dr Cris clarified:
“This is not meant to be a regular, daily medication. Guidelines say don’t take it more than once every 3 days.”
Any common side effects or risks?
Of course, I had to ask about potential side effects. Dr Cris explained: “Some folks might get stomach upset/reflux. Tips: take it with food and a full glass of water, and stay upright for an hour after to protect your throat. Others can have sun sensitivity, so making sure you are wearing sun screen or layers if you are out in the sun the day of and after taking the medication.”
And the elephant in the room: antibiotic resistance?
Patients have often asked me about this, and honestly I haven't been sure how to respond. Can taking antibiotics after sex could make things worse down the line? When I looked into it, Dr Cris was clear about the main concern: “This is the biggest concern with using DoxyPEP. Using antibiotics can lead to bacteria becoming resistant - which is already a worry. It means future treatments may be harder.”
It reminded me why this isn’t something to take lightly. Antibiotic resistance can affect not just one person, but the broader community and it's always something I'm considering as a nurse. He continued: “So it’s not something everyone should be using all the time. Appropriate use is a community and public‑health concern.”
Advice for folks worried about overusing antibiotics but still wanting protection?
I asked how people could balance protection with responsible use. Dr Cris said:
“Appropriate use of Doxy‑PEP and other types of protection like condoms for high risk events is key - Doxy‑PEP is just one tool. Use it appropriately, don’t over‑use it, and always continue routine regular STI testing every 3 months.”
Addressing stigma about “promiscuity”
Even in my own professional practice, I’ve spoken to colleagues who feel anxious about prescribing Doxy-PEP. Some worry it might encourage patients to live out their own “Ash Ketchum fantasy” except instead of catching Pokémon, it’s STIs. Sexual health tools often carry judgment, so I asked Dr Cris how we might reframe this. He told me: “Let’s reframe it: Doxy-PEP isn’t about judgement, it’s about care and infection prevention at the individual and community levels. It’s just another tool in your sexual health toolkit, like condoms, testing, or PrEP, and good communication with your partners.”
Doxy-PEP in a holistic sexual health approach
I wanted to know if Doxy-PEP fits into a broader sexual health plan? Dr Cris explained:
“Absolutely, Doxy-PEP complements other strategies: PrEP for HIV, condoms, and regular STI screening. It’s not a replacement, just another protective layer in your health toolbox for specific people and situations.”
Your 30-second message to queer community members curious about Doxy-PEP
Finally, I asked him to sum it up for the community: “If you’ve been wondering about Doxy-PEP, it’s a medication that can significantly reduce your odds of syphilis and chlamydia when used appropriately. It’s not for every single encounter, and you shouldn’t overuse it but when paired with condoms, PrEP, and regular testing, it can be a smart part of your sexual health plan. Chat with Hey Fella about whether it makes sense for you.”
At its core, Doxy-PEP isn’t just a little pill! It’s a power move for your sexual health! For the right folks, in the right situations, it’s another fabulous layer of protection and self-care, helping queer communities strut confidently while taking charge of their sexual wellbeing.
Where to Learn More
If you want to explore sexual health and learn more about Doxy-PEP, these are some trusted places to start:
ASHM (Australasian Society for HIV, Viral Hepatitis and Sexual Health Medicine)
Your local sexual health clinic
These resources provide reliable, evidence-based guidance to help you make informed decisions about your sexual health.
The information provided in this blog post is intended for general educational purposes only and does not constitute professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Statements made by any interviewees, including healthcare professionals, are not a substitute for consultation with a qualified healthcare provider who can consider your individual circumstances.
This blog reflects the perspectives and professional experiences of the individuals interviewed and the author, and does not represent the views of their employers or any affiliated organisations.
In line with AHPRA guidelines, no testimonials are included, and this blog post is not intended to advertise or promote specific services or treatments.
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