This is particularly true for older caregivers. Educators, health care workers, and community leaders need to inform and warn people about HIV - the dangers of having sex without a condom, the dangers of injecting drugs and using infected needles, and the importance of getting tested. Two thirds of the women got the virus because they had sex with infected partners. Nearly one third of the women got HIV because they shared needles. For example, women who are no longer worried about getting pregnant may be less likely to use a condom and practice safe sex.
Some menopausal women have vaginal dryness and thinning.
This means they are more likely to have small tears and abrasions during sex. Because women may live longer than men and because of the rising rate of divorce, there are a large number of widowed, divorced, or separated women starting to date. If there's any chance you might be infected, get tested. Early medical treatment is important, especially for middle aged and older people. Your doctor or medical provider can give you information about the kinds of treatments available.