Understanding the Implications of HIV Disease in Women

Abstract

Recently, greater attention has been focused on the implications of HIV disease for women. This is coupled with a greater awareness that women are impacted in different ways physically, psychologically, and socially by HIV infection or AIDS in comparison to men. In this article, counselors are urged to become knowledgeable about the many issues and stressors that women with HIV disease face. This article provides an overview of such concerns, including disease characteristics, progression, and symptoms. In addition, psychological, social, and relationship concerns are identified in relation to parenting, intimate relations with partners, and family and friendship support.

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