Gender, Power, and HIV Vulnerability

Before reading a research article by Panchanadeswaran et al., (2007), titled “Using the Theory of Gender and Power to Examine Experiences of Partner Violence, Sexual Negotiation, and Risk of HIV/AIDS among Economically Disadvantaged Women in Southern India”, I used to believe that women’s vulnerability to HIV was universal because they face almost similar gender and power obstacles. I did not know that gender inequalities in all its spheres increases women’s vulnerability to HIV, especially as it relates to intimate partner violence and assertiveness in negotiating for safe sex practices, where married women are most vulnerable. Gender, Power, and HIV Vulnerability

            Economic constraints affecting women originate from the sexual division of labor that accords men a higher participation, status, and remuneration in the work environment as compared to women. It creates an economic imbalance that can force women to be financially dependent on men, thus creating vulnerability in all spheres. Poverty is the main factor forcing most women to accept sex work as the only means of earning a livelihood for themselves and their children. The high poverty level increases women’s vulnerability to HIV infection, and varying levels of violence. Economic dependence forces women to forgo adoption of health-protective behaviors, including ignoring their partner’s infidelity or violent behavior