Late diagnosis of HIV remains a public health issue in Mexico. Most national programs target high-risk groups, not including women. More data on factors associated with late diagnosis and access to care in women are needed. In 2012-2013, Mexican women recently diagnosed with HIV were interviewed. Socio-cultural background, household-dynamics and clinical data were collected. Of 301 women, 49% had <200 CD4 cells/mm3, 8% were illiterate, 31% had only primary school. Physical/sexual violence was reported by 47/30%; 75% acquired HIV from their stable partners. Prenatal HIV screening was not offered in 61%; 40% attended consultation for HIV-related symptoms without being tested for HIV. Seeking medical care≥3 times before diagnosis was associated with baseline CD4 <200 cells/mm3 (adjusted OR 3.74, 95% CI 1.88-7.45, p<0.001). There were missed opportunities during prenatal screening and when symptomatic women seeked medical care. Primary care needs to be improved and new strategies implemented for early diagnosis in women.