Sexually transmitted diseases, HIV, and AIDS in women

Several key points are addressed in this article including the following: 1. Most women with HIV are of reproductive age (20 to 44 years of age), acquire their HIV infection through heterosexual contact, and are women of color (African American or Latina). 2. Sex does not seem to alter substantially the presentation or natural history of HIV with the exception of unique gynecologic manifestations. 3. Women with HIV are more likely to have disease caused by HPV (such as abnormal Pap smears or warts), more severe Candida vulvovaginitis, and PID. 4. HIV is transmitted by sexual contact, exposure to infected blood or tissues, and breast-feeding. The risk of perinatal transmission has dramatically dropped to 1% to 2% with the advent of potent ARV therapy. 5. Several potent ARV therapies are now available and have greatly prolonged and enhanced the quality of life among persons with HIV. 6. New approaches to prevention of HIV transmission include use of topical microbicides, vaccines, and use of potent ARV therapies following exposure to HIV.