Abstract
BackgroundLow-fee female sex workers (FSW) lack power to effectively negotiate male condom use with clients. Female condoms (FCs) may provide an alternative strategy. This study was conducted to assess the acceptability of FC use among low-fee FSWs, and to identify appropriate candidates for future FC promotion.MethodsA one-month follow-up study was conducted. At entry into the study, eligible participants completed a baseline questionnaire and were given 10 FCs. At the one-month follow up encounter, the number of used FC packages were counted and each participant completed a follow-up questionnaire. Logistic regression was used to identify variables associated with more frequent use of FCs (> 2 times).ResultsA total of 312 low-fee FSWs were enrolled at baseline and all participants completed the follow-up evaluation. Among them, 123 (39.4%) participants had used more than two FCs. Participants who were illiterate or had completed at most primary school education (OR: 2.4, 95% CI: 1.4–7.2), charged ≤30 RMB per client (≤30 vs. 51–80 RMB, OR: 3.8, 95% CI: 1.9–7.6), or had consistently used condoms with regular clients in the past month (OR: 2.4, 95%CI: 1.4–4.2) were more likely to use FCs.ConclusionLow-fee FSWs charging ≤30 RMB per client, and those who are less educated may be appropriate initial candidates for FC promotion in China. Strategies to consider include teaching FSWs tactics for negotiation of FC use that can initially be applied with regular clients, and providing education to maximize ease-of use, and minimize discomfort with FC usage.
Highlights
Low-fee female sex workers (FSW) lack power to effectively negotiate male condom use with clients
In terms of work-related characteristics, more than a half of participants had worked as a FSW for more than 2 years, 64.1% of participants charged less than or equals to 50 RMB per client; and 37.8% of participants solicited clients in self-rented rooms or “market day” buildings, Table 1 Participants’ Characteristics, and Univariate and Multivariable Analysis of Frequent Female Condoms (FC) Use in Three Chinese Cities, 2013, N = 312
In the multivariable logistic regression analysis, we found that participants who were less educated (OR: 2.4, 95% Confidence interval (CI): 1.4–7.2), charged ≤30 RMB per client (≤ 30 versus 51–80, OR: 3.8, 95% CI: 1.9–7.6; 31–50 versus 51–80, OR:1.8, 95% CI: 1.0–3.3) consistent condom use with regular clients in the past month (OR:2.4, 95%CI:1.4–4.2) were more likely to use FCs (Table 1)
Summary
Low-fee female sex workers (FSW) lack power to effectively negotiate male condom use with clients. Female condoms (FCs) may provide an alternative strategy. Promote consistent and correct use of male and female condoms (FCs) among high-risk populations, condoms have historically comprised a key part of strategies for the prevention of STI and HIV transmission [1]. FCs, which can be initiated independently by women, have been shown to provide comparable or improved. For vulnerable populations, such as female sex workers (FSWs), FCs may provide an alternative and more feasible option for FSWs to protect themselves, especially when clients refuse to use a male condom [4].
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
