HIV+ women more likely to experience menopause early

While advancements in the medical field have ensured a longer life expectancy for women detected HIV+, it, however, has exposed them to the risk of entering menopause transition early -- three years younger than the general population.

Yes, the average age of HIV+ women has shortened to 48 years from 50-52. The finding was published in Menopause, the journal of The North American Menopause Society (NAMS).

Newly diagnosed HIV-positive patients who adhere to the latest therapy protocols are expected to live into their mid-70s or longer. That means these patients are now faced with ageing issues that affect sexual and reproductive health, including menopause.

Previous studies have shown that women living with HIV are at an increased risk of early (age between 40 and 45 y) and premature (age