It is important to remember to give women information about sexual activity. Some women have found that in post–test counselling they are given advice about pregnancy (see HIV testing, pregnancy and children later in this chapter) but very little about their sex lives. Sex may be a more immediate concern. It is important to stress that an HIV–positive diagnosis does not mean an end to sex. In contrast to gay men, many women who are diagnosed HIV–positive will not be aware that many HIV–positive women continue to have sexual relationships.

If the woman is HIV–negative she may need support in adopting or maintaining safer sex. This could be particularly important, and difficult, if she cannot communicate easily with her partner(s), e.g. because of an abusive relationship or suspected infidelity.

If the woman is HIV–positive she will need information about how to protect herself from other STIs, and about sexual practices through which she could pass on the virus.

Not all women who have sex with other women will reveal this to their counsellor, but lesbian and bisexual women need information about any risks involved in sex with other women, see HIV transmission: Woman–to–woman transmission. Conversely, women who identify themselves as lesbians who inject drugs should be given information about the risks of sex.

HIV–positive women will need special information about future clinical monitoring, such as the need for more frequent cervical smears.

Women with dependants, including children, may need encouragement and support to continue to address their health and need for support, as they may place the needs of their dependants before their own.