Reducing risks associated with sex work requires an understanding of the social and cultural context in which sex workers live and work. This study aimed to explore the working environment and perceived risks among FSWs in Savannakhet province in Laos. Latent content analysis was used to analyze the transcribed text. The results revealed that the FSWs were aware of risks but they also talked about benefits related to their work. The reported benefits were financial security, fulfilling social obligations, and sexual pleasure.
The FSWs reported using a number of strategies to reduce risks and increase benefits. The desire to be self-sufficient and earn as much money as possible put the FSWs in disadvantaged and vulnerable situations. The FSWs were, however, not only victims. They also had some control over their lives and working environment, with most viewing their work as an easy and good way of earning money. Female sex workers FSWs are at risk of heterosexual transmission of sexually transmitted infections STIs including human immunodeficiency virus HIV because of inconsistent condom use, multiple sexual partners, and sexual violence from their sexual partners [ 1 - 3 ].
The aim was to expand national capacity in achieving universal and non-discriminating access to treatment, and care and support in order to improve the HIV situation throughout the country.
The target groups included female sex workers FSWs , migrant workers, men who have sex with men, and drug users [ 5 ]. Despite these efforts, between 0. Commercial sex, although a visible phenomenon in Laos, is illegal. Although this is no longer practiced, studies have shown that FSWs in Laos are still perceived negatively and stigmatized, especially by healthcare providers HCPs [ 9 ]. Furthermore, seeking testing and treatment for STIs is hindered by high costs, long waiting times, and judgmental attitudes of HCPs [ 10 ].
Under review, Global Health Action, One possible explanation is that most approaches to prevention have focused on individual activities but have not considered the reality of FSWs e. Reducing risks associated with sex work in Laos requires an understanding of the social and cultural context in which FSWs live and work. In this study, we explore the working environment and perceived risks and benefits among FSWs in Savannakhet province in Laos.
