Women & HIV/AIDS

All women need to know about the human immunodeficiency (IH-myoo-noh-dif-FISH-uhn-see) virus, or HIV. HIV causes acquired immunodeficiency syndrome, or AIDS, a disease that weakens the body’s ability to fight infection and certain cancers. Having unprotected sex is the main way HIV is spread. It also is spread through injection drug use or from mother to baby during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding.

More and more women have become infected with HIV since it was first reported in the early 1980s. Today, about one in four Americans living with HIV are women. And African American women are most affected. HIV/AIDS is the leading cause of death for African American women aged 25 to 34.

The statistics are alarming. But there is good news. Taking some simple steps can protect women from getting HIV — or prevent women from passing it to others, including their children. Also, while there is no cure yet, many women with HIV and AIDS are living longer and stronger lives thanks to a number of new treatments. A wide variety of government resources also are in place to help people living with HIV.

This section of womenshealth.gov will teach you how to prevent the spread of HIV. If you are HIV-positive, you will find information and resources to help you manage HIV safely and successfully.

Testing positive

Testing positive for the HIV can bring a range of emotions, such as panic, fear, and anger. But many HIV-positive women find that after some time, they are able to manage their condition and live life to its fullest. If you have just tested positive for HIV, don't give up hope. See Living with HIV/AIDS to help you find a doctor and the support services you will need. Keep in mind, there are people who care about you and want to help you, even if you have no insurance or money. You don't have to go through this alone.

Did you know you can have HIV and still feel perfectly healthy? The only way to know for sure whether you are infected is to get tested. Knowing your HIV status is one way you can help prevent the spread of HIV.

Content last updated March 4, 2009.