MENOPAUSAL TRANSITION EFFECTS ON SUSTAINED VIRAL LOAD SUPPRESSION IN WOMEN LIVING WITH HIV ANALYSIS

INTRODUCTION: Introduction: Human immunodeficiency vírus (HIV) infection currently affects a large proportion of women worldwide, and since the 1980s, with the beginning of the viral pandemic, research has focused on understanding its characteristics and health impacts. However, little is still known about how the virus behaves as women age, particularly during the climacteric period, an inherent phase of female aging. AIMS: Objectives: To conduct a systematic review aimed at analyzing the effects of the menopausal transition on sustained viral suppression in women living with HIV, as well as related biopsychosocial factors. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Materials and Methods: This systematic review followed the recommendations of the PRISMA protocol (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses), with searches performed using descriptors in the PUBMED, EMBASE, COCHRANE, SCOPUS, SCIELO, and PEDro databases. A total of 137 records were identified. Duplicate articles, studies without free access, and those without author correspondence when requested were excluded, resulting in 76 articles screened. Two independent reviewers applied the study’s inclusion and exclusion criteria based on methodology, abstract, and title. Thirteen articles remained, which were fully reviewed and discussed by the reviewers. Finally, four observational studies were included in this review. RESULTS: Results: The findings suggest that most women maintained viral suppression during the menopausal transition, with no clear evidence that aging is associated with worsening virological control. Moreover, improved management of comorbidities and biopsychosocial factors throughout aging may contribute to better HIV-related health outcomes. FINAL CONSIDERATIONS: Final Considerations: Menopausal status alone does not appear to compromise the effectiveness of antiretroviral therapy (ART) or viral suppression in women living with HIV. However, menopause represents a phase of increased clinical and psychosocial complexity, requiring enhanced monitoring and comprehensive care to promote better quality of life as women age.

KEYWORDS: Key words: 1. HIV; 2. Menopause; 3. Viral load; 4. ART; 5 Woman living with HIV.