Primary care of women infected with the human immunodeficiency virus

AIDS is the leading cause of death among women aged 25 to 34 years in New York City. Gynecologic care should be directed toward early identification and aggressive treatment of infectious and neoplastic processes that may take a more fulminant course in immunosuppressed women. Dealing with women's contraceptive needs highlights the problem of preventing sexually transmitted diseases through contraceptive technology. Public health policies and recommendations will be of no avail without an educated and supportive medical community.