Main description:

Written by three experts with extensive experience helping people with HIV/AIDS, this trusted resource is the complete guide to better physical and emotional health for women living with HIV or AIDS. It covers the full range of health and emotional issues faced by people with HIV while also addressing topics of special interest to women, including gynecologic disorders, reproductive choices, contraception, and pregnancy. The world of HIV/AIDS diagnosis and therapy is changing dramatically. At-home testing is now available, people exposed to the virus may be able to get immediate treatment, and the number of dominant classes of HIV treatment has increased from four to six. This new edition of "A Woman's Guide to Living with HIV Infection" includes the latest information on diagnosis and treatments as well as recent findings about pregnancy and HIV, starting treatments when you have HIV-related complications, liver health and hepatitis, and sexual health.

Contents:

Introduction: Women and the HIV/AIDS Epidemic
Part One: Adjusting to Life with HIV Infection
1. Testing for HIV
2. Finding a Primary Care Provider and Preparing for Your Visit
3. HIV, the Immune System, and Monitoring Tests
Part Two: Meeting the Challenge of HIV Infection
4. Recognizing Symptoms and Preventing Complications
5. Hepatitis and the Liver
6. Treatments for HIV
Part Three: Sexual and Gynecologic Health
7. Protecting Yourself and Others
8. Gynecologic Infections and Sexually Transmitted Diseases
9. Human Papillomavirus Infections, Genital Warts, and Abnormal Pap Smears
Part Four: Reproduction
10. Considering Pregnancy and Birth Control
11. Pregnancy
12. Menstrual Periods
Part Five: Taking Care of Yourself: Special Considerations
13. Breast Health, Bone Health, and Heart Health
14. Alcohol Dependence, Drug Addiction, and Treatment
15. Intimate Partner Violence and Abuse
16. Managing Your Feelings
17. Chronic Pain, Palliative Care, and Hospice
18. Planning for the Future
19. Research Studies and Clinical Trials
Appendix 1: Sample Tracking Sheet for Medications, Tests, and Vaccinations
Appendix 2: Resources for People with HIV
Glossary
Key References
Index