Biological differences primarily heighten the risk for cisgender women and receptive partners:
Gender norms and socioeconomic status play a critical role in determining exposure: Men and the HIV Epidemic The Vulnerability of Women and Men to HIV
Both men and women face significant vulnerabilities to HIV, though the drivers of these risks differ substantially across biological, social, and structural dimensions . As of 2024, approximately were living with HIV globally, with women and girls accounting for 53% of all cases. Biological Susceptibility approximately were living with HIV globally
: Shifts in the vaginal microbiome (e.g., bacterial vaginosis) or untreated STIs can increase HIV risk by up to 60% by causing local inflammation and attracting "target" CD4+ T cells to the area. Social and Behavioral Vulnerabilities The Vulnerability of Women and Men to HIV
: Receptive partners are at greater risk because of the potential for mucosal tears during intercourse. In post-menopausal women, reduced estrogen leads to thinner vaginal mucosa, further increasing the likelihood of trauma and infection.