In Brazil young women are increasingly at risk for HIV/AIDS by heterosexual transmission. With many men refusing to use male condoms, there is an urgent need to offer women a means of protecting themselves from STIs/HIV. This study assessed the acceptability of the female condom (FC) among sex workers, a group particularly affected by STIs/HIV. We wondered if the availability of the FC could decrease the frequency of unprotected sex acts. A convenience sample of 114 female sex workers in Campinas, Brazil were recruited, offered free FCs, and invited to weekly meetings to discuss their experiences over an eight-week period. A follow-up interview was conducted three months later. Initial acceptance was high. Women reported no difficulties with the method, although 30% found the FC to be "weird" and "ugly." They reported that a majority of their clients would not even try the FC. The availability of free FCs did not decrease acts of unprotected sex. Negative opinions of the FC were highest three months after the study, and women said that cost was a barrier. Eighty-six percent used more male than female condoms. The sex workers made distinctions between clients, with whom they used male or female condoms, and "partners" or more regular clients, with whom they had unprotected sex. These findings indicate the need for additional woman-controlled methods, and for a better understanding of the underlying reasons for unprotected sex by female sex workers.
Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the session, the participant will be able to: 1. Describe the attitudes of female sex workers towards the female condom in Brazil 2. Discuss the underlying reasons for unprotected sex acts among female sex workers in Brazil 3. Identify ways to improve the introduction of the female condom into this population
Keywords: Sex Workers, Risky Behaviors
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.