Understanding HIV: Key Symptoms In Women To Watch For

According to the World Health Organization, 39.9 million people were diagnosed with HIV in 2023, out of which 1.2 million were women. With every passing year, the number of HIV patients is increasing, despite awareness. HIV has a significant impact on women’s health and quality of life. The symptoms of HIV in women are different from those of men. Dr Rashmi Shriya, head of the department of Laparoscopic Gynaecology, MASSH Super Speciality Hospital in New Delhi shared the symptoms of this fatal infection in women.

What Is HIV?

Human immunodeficiency virus is a virus that attacks our immune system, starting with infection and presenting as minor flu-like symptoms. It can cripple the immune system, leading to AIDS, which is the most advanced stage of this infection.

Symptoms Of HIV In Women

Women experience different symptoms than men. Along with the common symptoms, such as fever, headache, rash, sore throat, weight loss, and diarrhoea, females may also experience excessive vaginal discharge, excessive menstrual bleeding, repeated sexually transmitted infections, and a higher chance of acquiring cancers related to HPV.

HIV Treatment And Pregnancy

If a patient or partner is affected and becomes pregnant, HIV (myths around hiv) can be transmitted to the baby through the placenta, during childbirth, and through breastfeeding. WHO mandates HIV testing during antenatal visits. If positive, the patient is offered specialist care to reduce the chances of passing HIV to the baby. If the patient is not already on any antiretroviral therapy (ART), tests such as the CD4 count are conducted, and ART is generally started, as it is mostly safe during pregnancy.

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ART helps decrease the transmission of HIV to the baby. Additionally, normal delivery is generally avoided, and a planned C-section is recommended. ART is safe to start during pregnancy, and frequent specialist visits may be required.

After the birth of the baby, the baby must undergo testing for HIV to determine if the infection has been contracted. If infected, the baby is treated by paediatricians. Additionally, breastfeeding is generally avoided, and formula feeding is recommended.

If one is planning to conceive, pre-pregnancy counselling is advised for both partners to ensure low viral counts. Once the viral count is low, you can plan for pregnancy. However, you will be subjected to pre-pregnancy medications such as folic acid and antiretroviral therapies. With newer drugs, the viral load can be easily reduced.

Dr Rashmi Shriya, “You can go ahead with a normal pregnancy; however, you may consider assisted conception like IVF or sperm washing if the viral load is high. Alternatively, you could use a sperm donor.”

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