Comprehensive, routine gynecological (GYN) care proves especially important for women living with HIV/AIDS, as it maximizes the opportunity for early detection and treatment of a number of conditions, some of which affect HIV-infected women at an increased rate. Screenings for cervical cancer, the most common AIDS-related malignancy in women, Chlamydia trachomatis (the most commonly sexually transmitted disease (STD) in the United States), breast cancer (the most common type of cancer among women in the US), and gonorrhea are particularly important elements in HIV primary care.

According to clinical care guidelines for routine GYN care for women with HIV infection, a comprehensive GYN care schedule should include:

• Papanicolaou (Pap) smear at least annually, to monitor the presence of human papillomavirus (HPV) and cervical dysplasia
• Screening for sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), including Chlamydia and gonorrhea, annually and whenever patients complain of consistent signs or symptoms
• After the age of 40, mammograms annually

Women may delay their annual GYN exams for many reasons — too busy, discomfort, menses, no perceived need. These problems seem generally more prevalent in HIV+ women, who frequently face added problems, such as lack of transportation or child care, embarrassment, and/or inability to access health services during the day. Change concepts enabling women to make and keep their annual GYN exam appointments greatly increase the chances for early detection and treatment of cervical and breast cancers and infections caused by sexually transmitted diseases.

Related Measures:

Percent of Female Patients/Clients with an Annual Papanicolaou (Pap) Test

Percent of Female Patients/Clients with an Annual Gonorrhea Test

Percent of Female Patients/Clients with an Annual Chlamydia Test

Percent of Female Patients/Clients over 40 Years of Age with an Annual Mammogram