Contraceptive options for women living with HIV
Phillips, S.; Steyn, P.; Temmerman, M.
Best Practice and Research. Clinical Obstetrics and Gynaecology 28(6): 881-890
2014
ISSN/ISBN: 1532-1932 PMID: 24947597 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpobgyn.2014.04.013Document Number: 625918
Women living with HIV are often of reproductive age, and many desire effective contraceptive options to delay or prevent pregnancy. We review the safety of various hormonal and non-hormonal contraceptive methods for women living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Additionally, we discuss drug interactions between contraceptive methods and antiretrovirals and the safety of methods with respect to onward transmission to HIV-negative partners for women in sero-discordant partnerships. In general, most methods are safe for most women living with HIV. An understanding of the reproductive goals of each individual patient, as well as her medical condition and medication, should be taken into account when counselling women on their contraceptive options. Further research is needed to understand drug interactions between contraceptives and antiretrovirals better and how to fulfil the contraceptive needs of HIV-positive women.