Early HIV infection causes symptoms in most women and men. However, these symptoms are often so mild that they are overlooked or attributed to another illness. Here's what you need to know about early HIV symptoms in women.

Women account for nearly 1 in every 4 U.S. adults living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention 1. Study results reported in the June 2, 2016 issue of the New England Journal of Medicine noted that more than 90% of women and men newly infected with HIV experience at least one symptom in the initial weeks after contracting the virus. Awareness of the early symptoms of HIV can potentially help avoid a delay in diagnosis and treatment, and help prevent spread of the virus to others.

Flu-Like Symptoms

Other frequent symptoms include muscle and/or joint pains, night sweats, fatigue, and swollen glands. Less common symptoms include:

• a sore throat
  
• mouth ulcers
  
• reduced appetite
  
• nausea
  
• vomiting
  
• diarrhea
  
• weight loss

Rash

Unlike many of the other conditions that can lead to flu-like symptoms, early HIV infection often causes a rash. A review article published in January 2011 in the Journal of the International AIDS Society explains that rashes are common in both the early and late stages of HIV infection.

Because the skin is the body's largest organ and populated by an array of immune system cells, it proves particularly vulnerable to the effects of HIV. Rashes due to early HIV infection tend to be red and itchy, and most commonly appear on the torso, neck and/or face. In some people, the rash is more widespread and involves the arms and/or legs. The rash gradually disappears on its own within a few days to weeks.

Nervous System Symptoms

• Foggy thinking
  
• Difficulty concentrating
• Forgetfulness
• Difficulty with fine hand movements, like writing
• Sensitivity to light :

Vaginal Sores

Uncommonly, vaginal sores or ulcers develop in women with early HIV infection. According to CDC, 87 percent of women contract HIV during unprotected sexual encounters with men. Previous or simultaneous exposure to other sexually transmitted diseases — like genital herpes, gonorrhea or chlamydia — increases the risk of contracting HIV and might increase the odds of a genital ulcer forming during early HIV infection.

When to See a Doctor

If you have risk factors for HIV — including a history of unprotected sex or injection drug use — be sure to get tested for HIV. Keep in mind that early HIV symptoms are usually mild and frequently missed or attributed to another illness.

Early HIV diagnosis and treatment will help protect you from HIV-related complications and prevent spread of the virus to loved ones.

Reviewed and revised by: Tina M. St. John, M.D.