Sexually transmitted diseases, HIV, and AIDS in women

This article discusses sexually transmitted infections and the HIV epidemic among women. Although women and men with HIV generally have a similar presentation, unique manifestations among women include cervical disease caused by human papillomavirus, recalcitrant or recurrent Candida vulvovaginitis, and severe pelvic inflammatory disease. Also reviewed are HIV perinatal transmission and contraceptive or reproductive choices. Future visions include prolonged lifespan for persons with HIV as a result of the emergence of potent antiretrovirals and reduction of HIV transmission from future interventions, such as consistent use of condoms with new microbicides, vaccines, and increased use of postexposure prophylaxis.