Protecting Women From Infection

Dr. Nancy Padian, University of California, San Francisco, discusses why, compared to men, women are disproportionately at risk for HIV, and what women can do to reduce their personal risk. Given the increasing numbers of women infected, it’s clear they need methods of prevention whose use they can control. She reviews research on women-controlled methods of prevention including microbicides, (chemical, topical methods that women can apply that might prevent infection) and physical barriers. In addition, she addresses strategies that promote economic independence and thus decrease reliance on male partners.