HIV: infections and treatments in women

The HIV virus is a disease that can affect both men and women. However, women may experience infection differently than men and therefore require specific HIV therapies. In women, in fact, the infection can be difficult to detect and, therefore, can be treated late. Women living with HIV may also face social and cultural issues that can impact their reproductive health and their ability to access the health care they need. In many parts of the world, women living with HIV may be marginalized or stigmatized, which can hinder access to healthcare. Additionally, many women living with HIV face gender-based issues such as sexual assault and domestic violence, which can increase the risk of infection and complicate HIV management. The HIV therapies used in women are similar to those in men. Combined antiretroviral therapy (cART) is the most effective therapy against HIV and is currently the first-line treatment. cART consists of the use of a combination of antiretroviral drugs that act on the replication of HIV in the body, thus reducing the viral load and slowing the progression of immunodeficiency. One of the advantages of this therapy is that it allows you to live an almost normal life. HIV-positive women who are breastfeeding and wish to breastfeed their children can do so under the supervision of an HIV specialist. In general, HIV-positive women who are breastfeeding have a greater risk of transmitting the infection to the baby and, therefore, require special medical attention. HIV can have a major impact on women's reproductive health. Women with HIV infection may develop gynecological infections such as vaginal candidiasis or bacterial vaginosis, which can make it more difficult to conceive and maintain a pregnancy. A woman living with HIV can pass the virus to her child during pregnancy, childbirth, and breastfeeding. The virus can be transmitted across the placenta or during childbirth through contact with secretions, maternal blood or through breast milk. Testing for HIV before or during pregnancy is important so that, if an infection occurs, treatment can be started to prevent or limit the spread of the virus. Additionally, some HIV-positive women may develop other infections, such as candida, and for this reason, may require additional medications. It is important to monitor these infections carefully and treat them quickly to avoid complications. In general, HIV-positive women need individualized management and constant medical attention.

In summary, HIV therapies in women are similar to those in men, but require personalized attention. Combined antiretroviral therapy (cART) is the most effective treatment against HIV and allows you to live a normal life. It is important to also monitor any other infections that may arise and treat them quickly to avoid complications.