NCJ Number
187479
Journal
Corrections Today Volume: 63 Issue: 1 Dated: February 2001 Pages: 77-81,97
Editor(s)
Susan L. Clayton
Date Published
February 2001
Length
6 pages
Annotation
This article looks at the increased prevalence of HIV-infected women in prison, the factors involved in the increase and the framework for constructing an HIV management plan.
Abstract
Even though women are less likely to be incarcerated than men, incarcerated women are three times more likely to be HIV-infected than incarcerated men. The number of HIV-infected women in prison has been rising steadily since 1980, due in part to the steady increase in the total number of women who are incarcerated. Numerous studies show that the same behaviors that lead to incarceration put women at an increased risk for HIV infection. Drug use, sex work, victimization, poverty, and race explain the prevalence of HIV-infected women behind prison walls. An incarcerated woman’s experiences and concerns are the essential framework in constructing an HIV management plan. Incarcerated women’s fears of stigmatization by peers and staff have a significantly negative impact on testing programs within institutions. HIV-infected, incarcerated women have high rates of cervical cytological abnormalities, STDs and certain gynecologic infections making it essential to have sensitive gynecological providers as critical members of the management plan. The management plan should also institute a comprehensive prenatal diagnosis and treatment protocols. Correctional management of HIV can be viewed as a network of interconnected services, addressing the needs of incarcerated women infected with HIV. Overall, incarceration provides a critical opportunity for the education, diagnosis, and medical care of HIV-infected women. Charts, Graphs, and Notes