Howley says PrEP hasn't just made condomless anal sex less risky – it's also made it a more “mainstream” proposition on dating apps, especially since the pandemic has reduced the MSM community's options. PrEP is a prevention method and those who are using PrEP correctly are protecting themselves and their partners against HIV.' Still, Howley also points out that PrEP doesn't offer complete protection because it doesn't prevent other STIs such as chlamydia, syphilis and gonorrhoea.

“But let’s not think they're having 'unprotected sex'. 'What PrEP has done for many is lift the guilt and shame associated with sex and I would imagine that means that more men are choosing to have condomless sex,” he says. Howley says PrEP has even changed the way we should talk about anal intercourse between MSM.