GYNECOLOGICAL DISORDERS AND HUMAN-IMMUNODEFICIENCY-VIRUS INFECTION

It is increasingly apparent that the differences in the prevalence and severity of various gynaecological conditions are a function of immunosuppression and differences in behavioural factors, rather than a direct effect of HIV itself. Women infected with HIV will present with their gynaecological disorders initially to their carers in both primary care and genitourinary medicine clinic settings. It is therefore essential that all those involved in the management of these women are aware of the interactions between HIV infection, immunosuppression and various gynaecological conditions so that they may be appropriately managed.