Women and HIV. A review of current epidemiology, gynecologic manifestations, and perinatal transmission.

HIV is increasing rapidly in women, particularly due to heterosexual transmission. The manifestations of HIV in women differ in some respects from those in men, most obviously with respect to gynecologic manifestations. Candidiasis, anogenital human papillomavirus and neoplasia, and contraception and prevention of sexual transmission are all important issues. Reduction in perinatal transmission is a key focus in women, with a growing number of effective preventative interventions.