DoxyPEP — doxycycline within 72 hours of condomless sex to reduce bacterial STI risk — has been actively discussed and piloted in the Netherlands. The country's pragmatic sexual health policy means clinical awareness is high, and access is realistic via the GGD or your huisarts.
What DoxyPEP Covers
DoxyPEP is a single dose of doxycycline (200 mg) taken within 72 hours of condomless sex.
- Syphilis: Strong protection — the clearest benefit.
- Chlamydia: Strong protection.
- Gonorrhoea: Unreliable. Doxycycline resistance in gonorrhoea is widespread, so do not count on DoxyPEP to prevent it — keep testing regularly.
It does nothing against HIV or other viral STIs; it is not a substitute for PrEP, condoms, or routine screening.
Access in the Netherlands
Via the GGD Soa Poli: GGD Amsterdam has been among the first Dutch GGDs to consider and pilot DoxyPEP prescribing. If you're a regular Soa Poli patient, raise it directly with your GGD provider — they will be familiar with the evidence and may be able to prescribe.
Via your huisarts: Many Dutch GPs are now aware of DoxyPEP from medical literature. Ask directly — a huisarts who prescribes PrEP will likely be open to this conversation.
Via Man tot Man / Soa Aids Nederland: manman.nl — this platform tracks the current Dutch landscape around DoxyPEP and will have the most up-to-date information on where and how to access it.
Cost: Doxycycline is a generic antibiotic available at any apotheek (pharmacy). Cost: approximately €5–15 for a box sufficient for multiple DoxyPEP doses. Whether it comes out of Eigen Risico depends on whether it's prescribed under your insurance or privately — ask your provider.
What to Say
In Dutch: "Ik heb gelezen over doxycycline als post-expositieprofylaxe voor bacteriële soa's. Kunt u mij hiermee helpen?" (I've read about doxycycline as post-exposure prophylaxis for bacterial STIs. Can you help me with this?)
In English — which will work perfectly with your GGD provider or huisarts.
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