Women are over five times more likely than men to have contracted HIV through
heterosexual contact. 1
The infection rate among African American women has risen dramatically. African American women make up only 13% of the US population, BUT:
- African American women account for 66% of all new female HIV cases2
- African American women often contract HIV through heterosexual sex3
 |
HIV is a very real danger and it’s on the rise among African American women. But you can help protect yourself against HIV infection. And if you are infected, you can take steps that can help you live a healthy life. |
Protect yourselt and others
- Get Tested/Know Your Status
- Learn more about living with HIV
- Practice safe sex. Ask your doctor or gynecologist about the best ways to protect yourself
- Is your partner a potential risk?
- Check with your doctor or local HIV clinic to find out the right questions to ask your partner and see what steps you can take to minimize the risk
Find the Right doctor
Living a Healthy Life with HIV means taking care of yourself.
An important first step is finding the right doctor for a healthier lifestyle. Here are some ways to find the right doctor for you:
An important first step is finding the right doctor for a healthier lifestyle. Here are some ways to find the right doctor for you:
- Find a doctor or clinic experienced in the treatment of HIV. You might want to look for doctors experienced in the treatment of HIV-positive women
- Local HIV/AIDS clinics or AIDS Awareness groups can help you find experienced HIV doctors
Birth Control and Other Medications
HIV medication can change how other medications work in your system, especially if you use birth control. How your HIV medications work can also be affected by other medications you take.
What are your options?
- Talk to your HIV doctor if you are taking birth control pills as well as other medications. This includes medications that don't require a prescription (also known as over the counter medications) and herbal products. Your doctor may need to adjust your medication dosage so it can work more effectively with your HIV medication
- Your doctor may suggest additional birth control and safe sex options in addition to the Pill, such as condoms that can greatly help stop the spread of HIV/AIDS
1.Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. HIV/AIDS Surveillance Report 2005, vol. 17.
2.Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: HIV/AIDS Surveillance in Women, slide 11 (http://www.cdc.gov/hiv/topics/surveillance/resources/slides/women/index.htm)
3.Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: HIV/AIDS Surveillance Report, vol. 13, no. 2, table 8.
2.Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: HIV/AIDS Surveillance in Women, slide 11 (http://www.cdc.gov/hiv/topics/surveillance/resources/slides/women/index.htm)
3.Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: HIV/AIDS Surveillance Report, vol. 13, no. 2, table 8.
