The Pill got a dose of bad press as research in the Lancet
suggested a link between oral contraceptives and HIV
transmission. A Kenya study of 318 HIV positive women revealed
that hormonal contraceptives and vitamin A deficiency affect the
shedding of HIV cells into body secretions. The stats, though
preliminary, may point to an important determinant of sexual and
vertical transmission of HIV, said lead researcher Dr. Sara
Mostad, of the University of Washington, Seattle. “If you’re on
the Pill, there’s a possibility you’re more likely to transmit
HIV.” But she warned against overestimating the finding: “Birth
control pills are a fabulous form of contraception and it would
be too bad to incriminate them at an early stage.” Besides, she
said, condom use should be a given. Related studies suggest that
hormone intake may also cause a thinning in the membranes lining
the vagina and cervix. The thinner the lining, the easier it
tears, making the woman more vulnerable not only to giving but
to getting HIV