The viral load of an HIV positive woman is highest during active
menstruation, and there is a higher risk for all sexually transmitted
infections (STIs) when an infected woman is menstruating. If you don't
know the status of your partner, you can reduce your risk by using a
barrier method of protection (such as a male or female condom, dam,
finger condom or cot, or latex glove) consistently, whether or not a
woman has her period.