As a result, people of color with AIDS and HIV were frequently left in limbo - a void that they have filled to some extent by creating service organizations specific to their own communities. For women, the biggest problem has been the refusal of epidemiologists to broaden the definition of AIDS to include gynecological infections. Pelvic inflammatory disease, urinary tract infections, vaginal candidiasis, abnormal pap smears, and increased incidence of cervical cancer are among the symptoms suffered by women, but none of these were officially recognized as AIDS-related illnesses until 1990. As a result, women were diagnosed only in late stages of AIDS, and many died without ever being officially defined as PWAs. Without a legal diagnosis, they were ineligible for Social Security disability benefits and other aid.
Women still face obstacles in getting care.
Studies of many antiviral drugs have focused on men only. Given the lack of research data, therefore, women are left vulnerable to unexpected side effects, and there's no clear picture of how antiviral drugs differ in effectiveness for women and men. Strong feminist mobilizing is the only answer to the institutionalized sexism of Big Medicine. Strengthening the movement's vital signs. Throughout the 1980s, the AIDS movement was militant, tenacious, and effective in pushing policy makers and the medical establishment to step up efforts against AIDS and make treatments available.