Gynecologic care and family planning for HIV-infected women

Abstract

Owing to advances in the understanding and treatment of HIV infection, most persons infected with HIV are now living longer, healthier lives. With the dramatic reduction in mother-to-child transmission in the past decade, the outlook on life has changed for women with HIV infection. It is critical that a new strategic plan for prevention of HIV transmission and a proactive approach to reproductive health care be implemented by health care providers who care for these women. Promotion of risk reduction counseling, screening for sexually transmitted diseases and lower genital tract disease, assessment of options for birth control, and pre-conception counseling should be integral components of gynecologic health care for HIV-infected women. This article reviews the current status of gynecologic and reproductive health care for HIV-infected women.