Women and HIV
Across Canada, 23% of people with HIV, are women. And 1 in 5 new infections are among women. Women from many different backgrounds and circumstances are affected by HIV.
Women who are HIV positive have different concerns than men.
If you are a woman with HIV, you may react differently to medications for HIV, and some treatments are not recommended for women. Having a doctor who specializes in HIV and that you can rely on, is very important to your health.
HIV medications may make some birth control less effective, so you may need to find an alternative option. You may also be more prone to more gynecological conditions, and experience changes to your menstrual cycle.
The great news is that with proper treatment, the virus can be undetectable in your blood. This means means you can’t pass on HIV to your sex partners, you can have babies with proper medical attention, and you will lead a long, happy and fulfilling life.
At The Village Pharmacy, we provide extra support for women living with HIV.
We’ll answer your questions about side effects, pregnancy or any other health conditions you are experiencing.
Talk to a female pharmacist with expertise in women living with HIV:
Email us at midtown@thevillagepharmacy.ca
Call us at 416-487-9128
Extra Services:
Get Free Delivery: Life is busy. And confidentiality can be very important. The Village Pharmacy can arrange for free, confidential delivery of your HIV medications to your home or office.
Get help paying for your HIV meds: We can help you with insurance coverage and co-payment assistance plans.
Check out more of our services for people living with HIV here.
In-person support for women living with HIV in Toronto
Mental health support for women living with HIV at Mount Sinai Hospital’s Clinic for HIV Concerns, Toronto
Sexual Health Clinic at Women’s College Hospital
Women’s Support Programs such as Women’s Zone, Buddy Program and more, provided by ACT
Find a WHAI (Women & HIV/AIDS Initiative) Coordinator near you. WHAI coordinators can help you with a wide range of issues from access to health care, social services, counselling and more.
Women’s Health in Women’s Hands - Call 416-593-7655 for information about programs and services for HIV positive women
Maggie’s Place Toronto - Provides support and resources for sex workers of all genders
Resources for women living with HIV
Get in touch with us if you need an HIV doctor in Toronto
Pocket Guide for Women Living with HIV, published by CATIE
Women and HIV (US Department of Health resource)
Women with HIV - Kelly’s Story
In this digital story, Kelly discusses being diagnosed with HIV. Her best friend, Sy, explains how loved ones can be a positive support. She also encourages young people to get the facts about HIV. The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's (CDC) HIV Treatment Works campaign for people living with HIV features the stories of individuals talking about how sticking to HIV treatment helps them stay healthy, protect others, do what they love, and live a longer, healthier life.