A note from TheBody.com: Since this article was written, the HIV pandemic has changed, as has our understanding of HIV/AIDS and its treatment. As a result, parts of this article may be outdated. Please keep this in mind, and be sure to visit other parts of our site for more recent information!
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.
AdvertisementThe 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.
A note from TheBody.com: Since this article was written, the HIV pandemic has changed, as has our understanding of HIV/AIDS and its treatment. As a result, parts of this article may be outdated. Please keep this in mind, and be sure to visit other parts of our site for more recent information!
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