Health vulnerabilities of the female sex workers: A qualitative investigation from South-western region of Bangladesh

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Health issues of the marginalized social groups are often ignored in our society. In the present study, the authors investigate the health vulnerabilities of female sex workers (FSWs) in the South-western region of Bangladesh using a qualitative research approach. Twenty in-depth interviews were conducted with the female sex workers and some key informants using a semi-structured interview guide. The interviews were audio-tapped, transcribed, and analysed thematically. Five themes emerged from the data revealing an overall poor physical, mental, and sexual/reproductive health status of the female sex workers. There were different factors including lack of healthcare knowledge, and difficulty in accessing quality healthcare services contributing towards the vulnerable health status of these women in prostitution. It is an immediate necessity to bring attention to the socially vulnerable female sex workers through specialized healthcare support and services in addition to the promotion of social awareness.