Barriers to Utilisation of Sexual Health Services by Female Sex Workers in Nepal

Laxmi Ghimire,Edwin Van Teijlingen

doi:10.5539/gjhs.v1n1p12

Abstract

Sexual health services are relatively rare in Nepal. Female sex workers (FSWs) do not use health services as much as would be desirable. A study was conducted to identify barriers to access of sexual health services by FSWs in Nepal. A mixed-method approach consisting of a 425 questionnaire-based survey and 15 in-depth interviews were conducted in 2007.One fifth of the FSWs had never visited health facilities. FSWs turned to private clinics followed by clinics belonging to non-governmental organisations and pharmacies for treatment. A combination of personal and service-related factors acted as critical barriers in accessing health services. Lack of confidentiality, discrimination and negative attitudes held by health care providers, poor communication between service providers and fear of exposure to the public as a sex worker were the major barriers to seeking sexual health services. These barriers should be taken into account while planning for sexual health services.

Highlights

1999), and sexual health service usage is generally low
Rather than using a victim-blaming approach, i.e. blaming Female sex workers (FSWs) for not using routine health services appropriately, we addressed questions such as: What is the nature of FSWs’ health service contact? And what are their barriers to accessing health care? This information is needed if use of current services by FSWs is to be improved (USAID 2004)
Because of this methodology the results provide an understanding of how FSWs see, interpret and respond to health services, and what factors influence their decisions to choose sexual health services

Summary

Introduction

1999), and sexual health service usage is generally low. Rather than using a victim-blaming approach, i.e. blaming FSWs for not using routine health services appropriately, we addressed questions such as: What is the nature of FSWs’ health service contact? What are their barriers to accessing health care? This information is needed if use of current services by FSWs is to be improved (USAID 2004). Health policy makers should reinforce the need to overcome the substantial barriers to access that exist for the poorest (Sachs 2001). The focus of much health policy intervention has been on reducing structural or services provider barriers

Methods

Results

Discussion

Conclusion