519 women have been diagnosed with HIV in New Zealand since 1985. In 2008, 37 women were diagnosed. Overall since the beginning of the HIV epidemic in New Zealand, 13.6% of HIV cases have been women infected heterosexually.

Sexually active women can prevent HIV transmission by using a condom and lube every time they have vaginal or anal intercourse.

Most HIV cases in New Zealand women have occurred as the result of heterosexual sexual transmission overseas. That is, the virus was acquired in another country but diagnosed here. A majority of women with HIV in New Zealand are recent immigrants or refugees from high-prevalence countries. 

HIV is almost unknown among women who identify as lesbian in New Zealand. The occasional reported case is most often attributed to shared needle use rather than sexual transmission.

Women who are pregnant can benefit from testing for HIV prior to birth. Early diagnosis of the HIV virus can significantly lower the likelihood of the baby being born with HIV, and will enable the mother to access effective treatments for HIV.

Further reading:

• Positive Women