Women with HIV who take HIV treatment as prescribed and have an undetectable viral load can live long and healthy lives.
This also means that as women with HIV age, they could face other health issues common in all older women, such as heart disease or cancer.
Women with HIV may face other challenges related to pregnancy or breastfeeding. HIV can also affect women’s health in unique ways, including having menopause symptoms earlier or a higher prevalence of cervical cancer.
Knowing what to expect can help take care of yourself and improve your quality of life.
Cervical Screening
Women with HIV have a higher risk of developing cervical cancer
and are recommended to have a Cervical Screening Test every 3 years.
From the July 2022, women and people with a cervix will have the option when they book in for a
Cervical Screening Test, to have a self-collected sample,
meaning that you can collect your own vaginal sample using a simple swab.
Menopause and HIV
All women will experience menopause and every woman’s experience of menopause is different. Some symptoms of menopause can be similar to some symptoms of HIV, for example night sweats. Therefore, women with HIV sometimes find it difficult to distinguish between their menopausal and HIV symptoms and worry that their HIV is no longer under control. It is important that you talk to your doctor about your symptoms and any menopause treatment options.
Other Healthy Websites
BreastScreen NSW is part of the national BreastScreen Australia program.This service aims to detect breast cancer early, before it has a chance to spread. Early detection of cancer increases the treatment options available and improves the chance of survival.
Test Kit helpline
If you have any questions or need help using the bowel cancer screening kit
Contact the National Cancer Screening Register to update your contact details