ABSTRACT
Preservation of the intact surface of the female genital tract is an important defense against heterosexual transmission of human immune virus (HIV). Differences between men and women in access to health care are acute when conditions are affecting sexual organs. The obstacles many women face in access to health care have among their causes poverty, lack of education, inferior position in society, and inadequate health systems. The causes of damage to the epithelial barrier against vaginal transmission of HIV are numerous: Sexually transmitted diseases, insertion of objects into the vagina, trauma during sexual intercourse, and genital mutilation practices, among others. Extensive employment and in-service training of local women in health centers and the community can reduce barriers while it extends the availability of services. The place of women in society is a primary cause of exposure to risk of HIV infection and a primary barrier to use of health services.
