The Vulnerability Of Women And Men To Hiv Official

: Women are estimated to be twice as likely as men to acquire HIV per heterosexual act. This is due to a larger surface area of mucous membrane exposed and the fact that semen typically has a higher viral concentration than vaginal fluids.

Biological differences primarily heighten the risk for cisgender women and receptive partners: The Vulnerability of Women and Men to HIV

Gender norms and socioeconomic status play a critical role in determining exposure: Men and the HIV Epidemic : Women are estimated to be twice as

: Shifts in the vaginal microbiome (e.g., bacterial vaginosis) or untreated STIs can increase HIV risk by up to 60% by causing local inflammation and attracting "target" CD4+ T cells to the area. Social and Behavioral Vulnerabilities The Vulnerability of Women and Men to HIV

: Receptive partners are at greater risk because of the potential for mucosal tears during intercourse. In post-menopausal women, reduced estrogen leads to thinner vaginal mucosa, further increasing the likelihood of trauma and infection.