The Hormone ProgesteroneHas a Role in Simian AIDS

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The Hormone Progesterone
Has a Role in Simian AIDS

New York Times, Gina Kolata

Summer 1996

The sex hormone progesterone, which is especially prevalent in the second half of the menstrual cycle, has been shown to make female monkeys much more vulnerable to SIV, the monkey version of HIV.

Two contraceptives, the implant Norplant, and Depo Provera, which is injected contain progesterone.

Reports indicate that 14 out of 18 monkeys given the hormone became infected with SIV, compared to just 1 of 10 monkeys that did not receive the hormone.

The findings are not necessarily applicable to humans, but experts say the results support earlier theories linking hormone levels and susceptibility to HIV infection.

The National Institute of Child Health Development is also investigating whether the issue of hormonal contraceptives increases HIV risk. The agency recently reported that the physical effects of hormonal contraceptives may affect HIV transmission. "Women might be more susceptible during menses, after menopause, or if they are on hormonal contraceptives." said Pamela Stratton, an NICHD researcher.

This article was provided by Women Alive. It is a part of the publication Women Alive Newsletter.

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