New studies suggest that some symptoms of HIV may be different in females.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than 7,000 American women were diagnosed with HIV in the United States in 2018.
HIV Symptoms in Women
There are some complications that are different in women These include gynecological health issues, increased risk of cervical cancer, cardiovascular illnesses, and aging-related issues.
Furthermore, a few other signs of an HIV infection in women also include:
- Abnormal vaginal discharge
- Vaginal yeast infection
- Irregular periods
- Mood changes
Most Common HIV Symptoms in Women
Menstrual changes. You may experience irregularity in your period, which is linked to HIV. Lighter to heavier bleeding, irregular cycle, and severe premenstrual syndrome may happen due to the virus. As a woman’s immune system becomes more compromised due to an increased viral load in the body, hormonal changes can occur and trigger other health effects for females.
Pelvic pain. Lower belly pain can be a symptom of an infection of your uterus, ovaries, and fallopian tube because of HIV. Also known as pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), this can cause unusual vaginal discharge, fever, irregular periods, pain during sex, and belly aches.
Yeast infection of the vagina. Frequent vaginal yeast infection is common among women who have HIV. A yeast infection of the vagina can produce a thick white discharge and pain during sex and when you pee.
HIV Early Symptoms in Women
HIV early symptoms in women are not that different from that of men. Typically two to four weeks after infections, you may experience flu-like symptoms as a result of your body’s response to the virus, which can last for weeks.
HIV early symptoms in women include:
- Fatigue
- Fever
- Muscle aches
- Night sweats
- Rash
- Sore throat
- Swollen lymph nodes
Some patients do not exhibit early HIV infection symptoms. But you should be tested to know your status if you believe you may have been exposed to HIV.