Women

This report provides an overview of high-risk HIV behaviors among women ages 18–44 in the United States, based on national surveillance data from the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS). High-risk behaviors include injecting non-prescribed drugs, receiving treatment for a sexually transmitted infection, and exchanging sex for money or drugs within the past year. These behaviors are key indicators of HIV vulnerability and often reflect broader social and structural factors such as access to health care, substance use patterns, and economic instability.

This counseling guide summarizes recommendations from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Panel on Treatment of HIV During Pregnancy and Prevention of Perinatal Transmission regarding the use of antiretroviral (ARV) drugs during pregnancy or when trying to conceive. Its purpose is to support informed, shared decision-making for individuals living with HIV and their clinicians. Effective antiretroviral therapy (ART) with sustained viral suppression is the cornerstone of maternal health and prevention of perinatal HIV transmission.

The 2024 US Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) Recommendation Statement reaffirms the importance of early screening for syphilis infection in all pregnant individuals to prevent congenital syphilis and associated complications. The report underscores timely testing—including repeat screening in high-risk cases—as a critical measure to safeguard maternal and infant health.

This report describes a newborn diagnosed with congenital syphilis, born to an adolescent mother without routine prenatal care. Despite initial diagnostic challenges, timely testing and treatment led to a positive outcome in accordance with national guidelines.

This webpage explains common causes—such as STIs, infections, or irritation—along with symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options. It emphasizes the importance of timely medical care to address underlying issues and prevent complications.

This journal discusses the development of educational animations aimed at increasing awareness and understanding of HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for women. The study explores qualitative research on how these animations can effectively communicate PrEP’s benefits, addressing barriers to its use and promoting better health decision-making. The research emphasizes the potential of digital health interventions in improving HIV prevention and the role of tailored educational content for enhancing women’s engagement with PrEP.

This journal investigates the prevalence of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) among women with vaginitis symptoms in a U.S. clinical study. Findings highlight the link between STIs and vaginal dysbiosis, emphasizing the need for comprehensive STI testing in this population.

This webinar is about improving maternal health lessons learned from states addressing congenital syphilis.

This webpage discusses the intersection between women and HIV. In 2021, 18% of the new HIV diagnoses in the United States and dependent areas were among women and 23% of all people living with HIV were women. In addition, Black women represent 54% of new HIV diagnoses among women.

This webpage from Texas Health and Human Services discusses HIV in women. This webpage offers various infographics, sharable graphics, and fast facts on HIV in women.