HIV and AIDS Research

The National Institutes of Health conducts research on HIV, which includes testing HIV vaccines and new drug treatments and looking at how HIV damages the immune system. Researchers are testing creams, gels, and films (called microbicides) that can be used in the vagina and rectum during sex to prevent HIV infection. They are also looking at the role STDs play in HIV infection, how to help people change their behaviors to keep from getting HIV, and ways for pregnant women to prevent passing HIV to their babies. Women are taking part in AIDS clinical trials across the country. Studies are looking at the signs of HIV infection and AIDS in women and how HIV is passed to babies.