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Mathias H, Foster LA, Rushton A. Programs and practices that support pregnant people who use drugs' access to sexual and reproductive health care in Canada: a scoping review. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth 2024; 24:72. [PMID: 38254076 PMCID: PMC10804510 DOI: 10.1186/s12884-023-06225-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2023] [Accepted: 12/25/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pregnant people who use unregulated drugs (PPWUD) are at high risk of health complications yet experience a range of barriers to sexual and reproductive health care. Given that improving maternal health and access to reproductive health care are key targets underpinning the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG), there is an urgent need to improve access to appropriate supports and services for this population. Little is known about what programs and practices exist to support PPWUD's access to sexual and reproductive health care. This scoping review aimed to identify the available literature on these programs and practices in Canada. METHODS A scoping review was conducted using JBI methodology and reported using PRISMA guidelines. Scholarly databases and grey literature sources were searched to identify literature published between 2016-2023 in English or French that discussed, defined, conceptualised, or evaluated programs and practices that support PPWUD's access to sexual and reproductive health care in Canada. Identified literature was screened using Covidence. Data were extracted from included texts, then analysed descriptively. Frequencies and key concepts were reported. RESULTS A total of 71 articles were included, most of which were grey literature. Of the total, 46 unique programs were identified, as well as several useful practices. Most programs were in urban centres in Western Canada, and most programs offered holistic 'wrap-around services.' Several programs delivered these services on-site or as 'drop-in' programs with the support of staff with lived/living experience of substance use. Most frequent program outcomes included keeping parents and children together, improving connection to other services, and reducing substance use harms. Noted helpful practices included non-judgmental care and the use of harm-reduction strategies. CONCLUSIONS Several programs and practices that support PPWUD exist in Canada, though few focus exclusively on sexual and reproductive health. There remain opportunities to improve access to programs, including expanding geographic availability and range of services. The review has clinical application by providing an overview of available programs that may support clinicians in identifying services for PPWUD. Future research should consider client perspectives and experiences of these programs. REVIEW REGISTRATION NUMBER Open Science Framework https://osf.io/5y64j .
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Affiliation(s)
- Holly Mathias
- School of Public Health, University of Alberta, 11405 87 Ave NW, Edmonton, AB, T6G 1C9, Canada.
| | - Lesley Ann Foster
- Department of Cultural Studies, Queen's University, 99 University Ave, Kingston, ON, K7L 3N6, Canada
| | - Ashleigh Rushton
- Faculty of Health Sciences, The University of the Fraser Valley, 45190 Caen Ave, Chilliwack, B.C, V2R 0N3, Canada
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Khezri M, Tavakoli F, Schwartz S, Karamouzian M, Sharifi H, McKnight CA, Jarlais DD, Baral S, Shokoohi M. Global epidemiology of abortion among female sex workers: a systematic review, meta-analysis, and meta-regression. Ann Epidemiol 2023; 85:13-37. [PMID: 37356778 DOI: 10.1016/j.annepidem.2023.06.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2022] [Revised: 05/11/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 06/27/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Despite the evidence of a high rate of unintended pregnancy, there remains limited information about the prevalence and experiences of abortion among female sex workers (FSWs). In response, we aimed to summarize the available evidence on abortion among FSWs. METHODS We searched Medline, Embase, PsycINFO, CINAHL, Scopus, and Web of Science from inception to January 29, 2023 . We pooled data from the included studies using random-effects meta-analyses. We also grouped countries for the legality of elective abortion stratified by the United Nations database on abortion laws and policies. RESULTS We identified 60 eligible studies from 2031 potentially eligible records. The pooled lifetime prevalence of at least one and multiple induced abortions was 37.7% (95% confidence interval, 31.8-43.7) and 21.7% (14.9-29.2), respectively. Among FSWs recruited in countries where elective abortion is illegal, at least one induced abortion prevalence was 35.1% (28.1-42.4), and multiple induced abortion prevalence was 23.1% (12.4-35.9). In countries where elective abortion is legal, at least one induced abortion prevalence was 44.6% (34.8-54.6), and multiple induced abortion prevalence was 19.9% (11.9-29.3). Among FSWs experiencing abortion, self-managed abortion prevalence was estimated at 32.8% (23.6-42.7) overall, 42.8% (37.2-48.5) for countries where elective abortion is illegal, and 15.6% (3.9-32.7) for countries that legally allow elective abortion. CONCLUSIONS Induced abortion is prevalent among FSWs, highlighting the need for interventions to increase access to effective contraception and safe abortion care. While induced abortion prevalence did not significantly differ across the legal grounds for abortion, self-managed abortion prevalence was higher in countries where elective abortion was illegal, highlighting the urgent need for accessible abortion services for FSWs in criminalized settings. Moving forward necessitates implementing and evaluating culturally acceptable models of safe abortion and post-abortion care for FSWs to increase access to the full spectrum of sexual and reproductive health services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mehrdad Khezri
- Department of Epidemiology, New York University School of Global Public Health, New York; HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Tavakoli
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Sheree Schwartz
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD
| | - Mohammad Karamouzian
- Centre on Drug Policy Evaluation, Saint Michael's Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada; Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Hamid Sharifi
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Courtney A McKnight
- Department of Epidemiology, New York University School of Global Public Health, New York; Center for Drug Use and HIV/HCV Research, New York, NY
| | - Don Des Jarlais
- Department of Epidemiology, New York University School of Global Public Health, New York; Center for Drug Use and HIV/HCV Research, New York, NY
| | - Stefan Baral
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD
| | - Mostafa Shokoohi
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran; Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Applied Health Sciences, Brock University, St. Catharines, ON, Canada.
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3
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Goldenberg SM, Pearson J, Moreheart S, Nazaroff H, Krüsi A, Braschel M, Bingham B, Shannon K. Prevalence and structural correlates of HIV and STI testing among a community-based cohort of women sex workers in Vancouver Canada. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0283729. [PMID: 36996154 PMCID: PMC10062647 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0283729] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2022] [Accepted: 03/15/2023] [Indexed: 03/31/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In light of the stark inequities in HIV and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) experienced by women sex workers, empirical evidence is needed to inform accessible and sex worker-friendly models of voluntary, confidential and non-coercive HIV and STI testing. We evaluated the prevalence and structural correlates of HIV/STI testing in the last 6 months in a large, community-based cohort of women sex workers in Vancouver, Canada. METHODS Data were drawn from an open community-based open cohort of women sex workers (January 2010-August 2021) working across diverse street, indoor, and online environments in Vancouver, Canada. Using questionnaire data collected by experiential (sex workers) and community-based staff, we measured prevalence and used bivariate and multivariable logistic regression to model correlates of recent HIV/STI testing at enrollment. RESULTS Of 897 participants, 37.2% (n = 334) identified as Indigenous, 31.4% as Women of Color/Black (n = 282), and 31.3% (n = 281) as White. At enrollment, 45.5% (n = 408) reported HIV testing, 44.9% (n = 403) reported STI testing, 32.6% (n = 292) reported receiving both HIV and STI testing, and 57.9% (n = 519) had received an HIV and/or STI test in the last 6 months. In adjusted multivariable analysis, women accessing sex worker-led/specific services had higher odds of recent HIV/STI testing, (Adjusted Odds Ratio (AOR): 1.91, 95% Confidence Interval (CI): 1.33-2.75), whereas Women of Color and Black women (AOR: 0.52, 95%CI: 0.28-0.98) faced significantly lower odds of recent HIV/STI testing. CONCLUSIONS Scaling-up community-based, sex worker-led and tailored services is recommended to enhance voluntary, confidential, and safe access to integrated HIV/STI testing, particularly for Women of Color and Black Women. Culturally safe, multilingual HIV/STI testing services and broader efforts to address systemic racism within and beyond the health system are needed to reduce inequities and promote safe engagement in services for racialized sex workers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shira M. Goldenberg
- Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, San Diego State University, San Diego, CA, United States of America
- Centre for Gender and Sexual Health Equity, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- Division of Social Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Jennie Pearson
- Centre for Gender and Sexual Health Equity, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- Division of Social Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Sarah Moreheart
- Centre for Gender and Sexual Health Equity, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC Canada
| | - Hannah Nazaroff
- Centre for Gender and Sexual Health Equity, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Andrea Krüsi
- Centre for Gender and Sexual Health Equity, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- Division of Social Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Melissa Braschel
- Centre for Gender and Sexual Health Equity, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Brittany Bingham
- Division of Social Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- Vancouver Coastal Health, Indigenous Health, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Kate Shannon
- Centre for Gender and Sexual Health Equity, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- Division of Social Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
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Moradi G, Gouya MM, Ezzati Amini E, Ghorbani SS, Akbarpour S, Zareie B, Izadi N, Kashefi F, Moradi Y. Intentional abortion and its associated factors among female sex workers in Iran: Results from national bio-behavioral surveillance-2020. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0273732. [PMID: 36037196 PMCID: PMC9423624 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0273732] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2022] [Accepted: 08/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose
In addition to estimating the prevalence of intentional abortion in Iranian female sex workers (FSWs), this study identified related factors using the data of a national study.
Methods
This cross-sectional study utilizes the third round of integrated bio-behavioral surveillance-III data in Iranian FSWs in December 2019 and August 2020, and 1515 Participants were selected in 8 geographically diverse cities in Iran. Logistic regression was performed using unweighted analysis to identify factors associated with intentional abortion. Stata software (version 14), respondent-driven sampling analyses, and R (version 4.1.2) was used for data analysis.
Results
From 1390 participants with valid responses to the abortion question, 598 (37.3%; 95% CI: 32.43, 42.11%) reported intentional abortion during their life. According to the age groups, the highest prevalence of abortion was in the age group of 31 to 40 years (42.60%). In the multivariate logistic regression model, the marital status (divorced women (AOR = 2.05, 95% CI: 1.29, 3.27), concubines (AOR = 1.78, 95% CI: 1.02, 3.11)), work experience in brothels (AOR = 1.39, 95% CI: 1.04, 1.84), the type of sex (AOR = 2.75, 95% CI: 1.35, 5.58), the history of sexual violence (AOR = 1.54, 95% CI: 1.19, 2.01), and alcohol consumption (AOR = 1.53, 95% CI: 1.18, 2.01) were significantly associated with a history of intentional abortion.
Conclusion
Intentional abortion’s prevalence among Iranian FSWs has been much higher than that of the general female population in Iran, which is an alarming issue in the public health of this group and needs more effective interventions. In addition, alcohol consumption, working in a brothel, and being divorced are essential factors in increasing abortions among sex workers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ghobad Moradi
- Social Determinants of Health Research Center, Research Institute for Health Development, Kurdistan University of Medical Sciences, Sanandaj, Iran
| | - Mohammad Mehdi Gouya
- Iranian Center for Communicable Diseases Control, Ministry of Health and Medical Education, Tehran, Iran
| | - Elnaz Ezzati Amini
- Social Determinants of Health Research Center, Research Institute for Health Development, Kurdistan University of Medical Sciences, Sanandaj, Iran
| | - Sahar Sotoodeh Ghorbani
- Department of Epidemiology School of Public health and Safety, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Samaneh Akbarpour
- Occupational Sleep Research Center, Baharloo Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Islamic Republic of Iran
| | - Bushra Zareie
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
| | - Neda Izadi
- Department of Epidemiology School of Public health and Safety, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Farzaneh Kashefi
- Reproductive health, Population, Family and School Health Department, Ministry of Health and Medical Education, Tehran, Iran
| | - Yousef Moradi
- Social Determinants of Health Research Center, Research Institute for Health Development, Kurdistan University of Medical Sciences, Sanandaj, Iran
- * E-mail:
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Satriyandari Y, Quasimah Y, Fitriahadi E, Suryaningsih EK. Investigating the Factors of Contraception use among Female Sex Workers. Open Access Maced J Med Sci 2022. [DOI: 10.3889/oamjms.2022.7376] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Prostitution is a social problem because prostitution harms the safety, tranquility and prosperity physical, spiritual, and social of the common life, it becomes real when connected with the transmission of venereal diseases, the views of several religions and traditional traditions of the tribes in Indonesia. One of the consequences of unhealthy sexual activity is emergence of sexually transmitted diseases. To do the PMS, it has developed various methods of contraception that can be used by the public at large.
AIM: The study aims to determine the factors of contraceptive use in commercial sex workers in Yogyakarta, Indonesia.
RESULTS: This research employed a quantitative approach with cross-sectional design. Respondents involved were 30 commercial sex workers. The results showed that most respondents used condom contraceptives as many as 21 people (70.0%), most respondent have an age of 18–40 years as many as 24 people (80.0%), most respondent have elementary education as many as 16 people (53.3%) and most of the respondents had a high income of 25 people (83.3%).
IMPLICATION FOR PRACTICE: It’s hope that in the coming year educational institutions can complete references to books on concepts, especially about community midwifery care to support student research in completing research.
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Nestadt DF, Park JN, Galai N, Beckham SW, Decker MR, Zemlak J, Sherman SG. Sex workers as mothers: Correlates of engagement in sex work to support children. GLOBAL SOCIAL WELFARE : RESEARCH, POLICY & PRACTICE 2021; 8:251-261. [PMID: 36935888 PMCID: PMC10019358 DOI: 10.1007/s40609-021-00213-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/12/2021] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Globally, most female sex workers (FSW) are mothers but are rarely considered as such in public health and social service programs and research. We aimed to quantitatively describe FSW who are mothers and to examine correlates of current engagement in sex work to support children among a cohort of FSW in Baltimore, Maryland, United States (U.S.). METHODS The study utilized baseline survey and HIV/STI testing data from the Sex workers And Police Promoting Health In Risky Environments (SAPPHIRE) study of women engaged in street-based sex work in Baltimore, Maryland. Variable selection and interpretation were guided by Connell's theory of Gender and Power. We used bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses to examine correlates of engagement in sex work to support children among FSW mothers. RESULTS Our sample included 214 FSW with children, of whom 27% reported supporting children as a reason for the current engagement in sex work. Median age was 36 years, and mean number of children was 2.88. 20.6% were currently living with any of their minor aged children, and this was significantly more common among mothers engaged in sex work to support children (57.9% vs. 7%; p<0.001). 38.7% had ever lost legal custody of children, which was significantly less common among those supporting children through sex work (26.8% vs. 42.9%; p=0.033). In multivariate analyses, the following were independently associated with engaging in sex work to support children: African-American versus white race (aOR=2.62; 95% CI:1.18-5.82; p=0.018); less housing instability (aOR=0.42; 95% CI:0.20-0.89; p=0.024); initiating sex work at age <23 (aOR=2.59; 95% CI:1.23-5.46; p=0.012); less frequent intoxication during sex with clients (aOR=0.31; 95% CI:0.14-0.67; p=0.003); and reporting mental health as most important health concern (aOR=2.37; 95% CI:1.09-5.17; p=0.029). CONCLUSIONS FSW mothers who report engagement in sex work to support children are distinct from their counterparts in key areas related to HIV and other health outcomes. Neglecting to account for this important social role may lead to missed opportunities to meaningfully promote physical and mental health and to engage women on their own terms. Future research and interventions should seek to address FSW as whole social beings and center their experiences and needs as mothers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danielle Friedman Nestadt
- Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Ju Nyeong Park
- Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Noya Galai
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Department of Statistics, University of Haifa, Mount Carmel, Israel
| | - S. W. Beckham
- Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Michele R. Decker
- Department of Population, Family, and Reproductive Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Jessica Zemlak
- Johns Hopkins University School of Nursing, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Susan G. Sherman
- Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
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Kenny KS, Krüsi A, Barrington C, Ranville F, Green SL, Bingham B, Abrahams R, Shannon K. Health consequences of child removal among Indigenous and non-Indigenous sex workers: Examining trajectories, mechanisms and resiliencies. SOCIOLOGY OF HEALTH & ILLNESS 2021; 43:1903-1920. [PMID: 34468044 PMCID: PMC8765365 DOI: 10.1111/1467-9566.13364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2019] [Revised: 07/28/2021] [Accepted: 08/03/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
The child protection system can be a highly consequential institution for mothers who are sex workers, yet scant attention has been paid to the health consequences of its policies on this population. Drawing on 31 in-depth, semi-structured interviews with 19 Indigenous and 12 non-Indigenous sex workers in Vancouver, Canada, and using the stress process model and the concept of slow violence, this study proposes a typology of four trajectories through which child removal by this system shaped sex workers' health. Results suggest that child removal has health consequences beyond the conventionally thought of mechanism of mental distress and related health sequelae, to additionally alter women's social conditions, which also carried risks for health. Notably, while trajectories of Indigenous and non-Indigenous sex workers were similar, Indigenous participants, whose families are disproportionately impacted by long-standing colonial policies of child removal, were more severely jeopardized. Findings highlight how child removal can enact violence in the form of reverberating harms to sex workers' health, further reinforcing their marginalized statuses. This study calls for greater attention to how the child protection system (CPS) may influence the health of marginalized mothers, including how health inequities may be both causes and consequences of interventions by this system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathleen S. Kenny
- Manitoba Centre for Health Policy, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
- Centre for Gender & Sexual Health Equity, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- Department of Maternal and Child Health, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Andrea Krüsi
- Centre for Gender & Sexual Health Equity, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Clare Barrington
- Department of Health Behavior, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Flo Ranville
- Centre for Gender & Sexual Health Equity, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Sherri L. Green
- Department of Maternal and Child Health, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Brittany Bingham
- Centre for Gender & Sexual Health Equity, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Ronald Abrahams
- Fir Square Combined Care Unit, BC Women’s Hospital, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Kate Shannon
- Centre for Gender & Sexual Health Equity, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
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Philbin MM, Parish C, Bergen S, Kerrigan D, Kinnard EN, Reed SE, Cohen MH, Sosanya O, Sheth AN, Adimora AA, Cocohoba J, Goparaju L, Golub ET, Fischl M, Alcaide ML, Metsch LR. A Qualitative Exploration of Women's Interest in Long-Acting Injectable Antiretroviral Therapy Across Six Cities in the Women's Interagency HIV Study: Intersections with Current and Past Injectable Medication and Substance Use. AIDS Patient Care STDS 2021; 35:23-30. [PMID: 33400587 PMCID: PMC7826427 DOI: 10.1089/apc.2020.0164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Medications for antiretroviral therapy (ART) and preexposure prophylaxis (PrEP) are currently daily pill regimens, which pose barriers to long-term adherence. Long-acting injectable (LAI) modalities have been developed for ART and PrEP, but minimal LAI-focused research has occurred among women. Thus, little is known about how women's history of injection for medical or nonmedical purposes may influence their interest in LAI. We conducted 89 in-depth interviews at 6 sites (New York, NY; Chicago, IL; San Francisco, CA; Atlanta, GA; Chapel Hill, NC; Washington, DC) of the Women's Interagency HIV study. Interviews occurred with women living with HIV (n = 59) and HIV-negative women (n = 30) from November 2017 to October 2018. Interviews were recorded, transcribed, and analyzed using thematic content analysis. Women's prior experiences with injections occurred primarily through substance use, physical comorbidities, birth control, or flu vaccines. Four primary categories of women emerged; those who (1) received episodic injections and had few LAI-related concerns; (2) required frequent injections and would refuse additional injections; (3) had a history of injection drug use, of whom some feared LAI might trigger a recurrence, while others had few LAI-related concerns; and (4) were currently injecting drugs and had few LAI-related concerns. Most women with a history of injectable medication would prefer LAI, but those with other frequent injections and history of injection drug use might not. Future research needs to address injection-related concerns, and develop patient-centered approaches to help providers best identify which women could benefit from LAI use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Morgan M. Philbin
- Department of Sociomedical Sciences, Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, New York, New York, USA
- Address correspondence to: Morgan M. Philbin, PhD, MHS, Department of Sociomedical Sciences, Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, 722 West 168th Street, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Carrigan Parish
- Department of Sociomedical Sciences, Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, New York, New York, USA
| | - Sadie Bergen
- Department of Sociomedical Sciences, Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, New York, New York, USA
| | - Deanna Kerrigan
- Department of Prevention and Community Health, Milken Institute School of Public Health at George Washington University, District of Columbia, USA
| | - Elizabeth N. Kinnard
- Division of Epidemiology, UC Berkeley School of Public Health, Berkeley, California, USA
| | - Sarah E. Reed
- Teachers College, Columbia University, New York, New York, USA
| | - Mardge H. Cohen
- Department of Medicine, John H. Stroger Jr. Hospital of Cook County, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Oluwakemi Sosanya
- Department of Medicine, Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, New York, USA
| | - Anandi N. Sheth
- Department of Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Adaora A. Adimora
- Division of Infectious Diseases, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Jennifer Cocohoba
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, University of California at San Francisco School of Pharmacy, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Lakshmi Goparaju
- Department of Medicine, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
| | - Elizabeth T. Golub
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Margaret Fischl
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Maria L. Alcaide
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Lisa R. Metsch
- Department of Sociomedical Sciences, Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, New York, New York, USA
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9
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Khezri M, Shokoohi M, Karamouzian M, Mirzazadeh A, Ghalekhani N, Gholamypour Z, Valipour A, Haghdoost AA, Sharifi H. Induced abortion and associated factors among female sex workers in Iran. EUR J CONTRACEP REPR 2020; 25:434-438. [PMID: 32938240 DOI: 10.1080/13625187.2020.1815007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Induced abortion is an occupational hazard for female sex workers (FSWs). This study aimed to examine the prevalence and factors associated with induced abortion among FSWs in Iran. METHODS 1337 FSWs aged ≥18 years who reported selling sex to more than one male client in the past 12 months were recruited in 13 major cities in Iran between January and August 2015. Bivariable and multivariable modified Poisson regression models were constructed to examine the correlates of induced abortion. Adjusted prevalence ratios (APRs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were reported. RESULTS Lifetime induced abortion was reported by 621 of 1335 participants (46.5%; 95% CI 43.8, 49.2). Older age (APR for ≥ 35 vs. < 25 years, 1.46; 95% CI: 1.03, 2.07), having ever been married (APR 1.58; 95% CI 1.05, 2.39), having ever worked in a brothel (APR 1.19; 95% CI 1.02, 1.38) and a lifetime history of being raped (APR 1.19; 95% CI 1.03, 1.38) were significantly associated with lifetime induced abortion (all p < 0.05). CONCLUSION The high prevalence of induced abortion among FSWs in Iran is concerning. Evidence-informed programmes targeting FSWs in Iran would improve their knowledge and encourage contraceptive use as well as promote pregnancy prevention and post-abortion care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mehrdad Khezri
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Future Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Mostafa Shokoohi
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Future Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran.,Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Mohammad Karamouzian
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Future Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran.,School of Population and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Ali Mirzazadeh
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Future Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran.,Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Nima Ghalekhani
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Future Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Zahra Gholamypour
- Centre for Disease Control and Prevention, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Azam Valipour
- Centre for Communicable Diseases, Ministry of Health, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ali Akbar Haghdoost
- Modeling in Health Research Center, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Hamid Sharifi
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Future Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
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10
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Yam EA, Kahabuka C, Mbita G, Winani K, Apicella L, Casalini C, Mbuguni Z. Safer conception for female sex workers living with HIV in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania: Cross-sectional analysis of needs and opportunities in integrated family planning/HIV services. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0235739. [PMID: 32692777 PMCID: PMC7373272 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0235739] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2019] [Accepted: 06/23/2020] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Background With the advent of effective treatment, women living with HIV can plan for pregnancy while minimizing risk of transmission to infants and seronegative partners. Family planning (FP) services tend to focus solely on addressing contraceptive need, but HIV-positive women—including female sex workers—often plan to have children someday. Various “safer conception” strategies are now available to support women living with HIV achieve fertility intentions, and integrated HIV/FP services may be a promising platform to offer these services. Methods At integrated community-based HIV/FP service delivery sites operated by Jhpiego’s Sauti project in Dar es Salaam, we conducted exit interviews with 300 HIV-positive female sex workers. Descriptive analyses were conducted to describe their desire for children, use of condoms and other modern contraceptive methods, self-reported viral suppression, and knowledge of and interest in safer conception strategies. We conducted bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis to examine correlates of fertility desire among respondents. Results Median age of participants was 32. Nearly one-third wished to have a child within two years. Seventy-two percent had heard of having the HIV-positive partner taking ART to reduce sexual transmission during pregnancy attempts. Thirty-one percent felt the amount of FP content covered in the consultation was “too little.” Factors significantly associated with desire for children were having a nonpaying partner (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] 2.18, 95% confidence interval [CI]1.13–4.20) and having fewer children (AOR 0.65, 95% CI 0.48–0.87). Viral suppression was not associated with fertility desire. Conclusions Sex workers living with HIV attending integrated HIV/FP services have need for both contraception as well as safer conception counseling. This integrated service delivery modality is a promising platform for providing safer conception services. FP counseling for HIV-positive women should be broadened to broach the topic of safer pregnancy, as well as explicit counseling on strategies to minimize risk of sexual transmission to partners.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eileen A. Yam
- Population Council, Washington, DC, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | | | | | - Koheleth Winani
- Reproductive and Child Health Section, Ministry of Health, Community Development, Gender, Elderly and Children, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | | | | | - Zuhura Mbuguni
- Reproductive and Child Health Section, Ministry of Health, Community Development, Gender, Elderly and Children, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
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11
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West BS, Becerra Ramirez M, Bristow CC, Abramovitz DA, Vera A, Staines H, Gudelia Rangel M, Patterson TL, Strathdee SA. Correlates of trichomoniasis among female sex workers who inject drugs in two Mexico-US border cities. Int J STD AIDS 2020; 31:866-875. [PMID: 32623979 DOI: 10.1177/0956462420929463] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
This paper evaluates correlates of trichomoniasis among female sex workers who inject drugs (FSWIDs) in two Mexico-US border cities. HIV-negative FSWIDs aged 18 years or older were enrolled in a study between 2008 and 2010 in Tijuana and Ciudad Juarez (Cd.), Mexico. All participants underwent a baseline interviewer-administered survey and did a rapid test for trichomoniasis. Using regression to estimate prevalence ratios, we examined sociodemographics, sex work characteristics, sexual health and behavior, substance use, and police and violence exposures as potential correlates of trichomoniasis. Of 584 women (284 in Tijuana, 300 in Cd. Juarez), prevalence of trichomoniasis was 33.6%. Factors associated with trichomoniasis in multivariable analysis were having money stolen by police in the past six months (adjusted prevalence ratio [aPR] =1.448, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.152-1.821), recent methamphetamine use (aPR = 1.432, CI = 1.055-1.944), lifetime syphilis infection (aPR = 1.360, CI = 1.061-1.743), ever use of a home remedy to treat vaginal symptoms (aPR = 1.301, CI = 1.027-1.649), and number of regular clients in the past month (aPR = 1.006 per client, CI = 1.004-1.009), while controlling for age and city of interview. Alongside the need for trichomoniasis surveillance and treatment programs, findings indicate that both structural and behavioral factors serve as primary correlates of trichomoniasis among FSWIDs in these cities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brooke S West
- Columbia University School of Social Work, New York, NY, USA
| | - Milagros Becerra Ramirez
- Department of Family Medicine, University of California Los Angeles International Medical Graduate Program, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Claire C Bristow
- Department of Medicine, Division of Global Public Health, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Daniela A Abramovitz
- Department of Medicine, Division of Global Public Health, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Alicia Vera
- Department of Medicine, Division of Global Public Health, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Hugo Staines
- Departamento de Ciencias Médicas, Universidad Autónoma de Ciudad Juárez, Ciudad Juárez, México
| | | | - Thomas L Patterson
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Steffanie A Strathdee
- Department of Medicine, Division of Global Public Health, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
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12
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Kenny KS, Ranville F, Green SL, Duff P, Braschel M, Abrahams R, Shannon K. Family Separation and Maternal Self-rated Health: Evidence from a Prospective Cohort of Marginalized Mothers in a Canadian Setting. Matern Child Health J 2019; 23:1232-1239. [PMID: 31222596 PMCID: PMC7806192 DOI: 10.1007/s10995-019-02762-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Involuntary child removal via the child protection system disproportionately affects marginalized women, yet the impacts on maternal health are under-investigated. This study prospectively examined the association of child removal with self-rated health of mothers who are sex workers. Given high levels of intergenerational family separation in this population, particularly among Indigenous sex workers, we also estimated joint effects of child removal spanning two generations. METHODS Analyses drew on 2010-2015 data from AESHA (An Evaluation of Sex Workers' Health Access), a prospective cohort of sex workers (n = 950) in Vancouver, Canada. Using logistic regression with generalized estimating equations, we modeled the association of past child removal and current self-rated health in a sample of 466 sex workers who ever had a live birth. Joint effects of child removal and history of removal from own parents were also investigated. RESULTS Of 466 sex workers, 180 (38.6%) reported child removal at baseline and 147 (31.6%) had a history of removal from own parents. In main effects model, child removal was associated with increased odds of poorer self-rated health [odds ratio (OR) 1.50, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.04, 2.16]. Joint effects model showed higher odds of poorer self-rated health (OR 2.04, 95% CI 1.27, 3.27) among women with intergenerational family separation. CONCLUSION FOR PRACTICE Child removal was negatively associated with sex workers' health that was worsened when family separation spanned two generations. Findings underscore need to develop sex worker and Indigenous-led family support services, along with tailored interventions to address health needs of those separated from their children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathleen S Kenny
- Department of Maternal and Child Health, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, 135 Dauer Drive 401 Rosenau Hall, CB #7445, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599-7445, USA
| | - Flo Ranville
- Centre for Gender & Sexual Health Equity, 1190 Hornby Street, Vancouver, BC, V6Z 2K5, Canada
| | - Sherri L Green
- Department of Maternal and Child Health, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, 135 Dauer Drive 401 Rosenau Hall, CB #7445, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599-7445, USA
| | - Putu Duff
- Centre for Gender & Sexual Health Equity, 1190 Hornby Street, Vancouver, BC, V6Z 2K5, Canada
| | - Melissa Braschel
- Centre for Gender & Sexual Health Equity, 1190 Hornby Street, Vancouver, BC, V6Z 2K5, Canada
| | - Ronald Abrahams
- Fir Square Combined Care Unit, BC Women's, 2nd Floor, 4500 Oak Street, Vancouver, BC, V6H 3N1, Canada
| | - Kate Shannon
- Centre for Gender & Sexual Health Equity, 1190 Hornby Street, Vancouver, BC, V6Z 2K5, Canada.
- Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, V6Z 2K5, Canada.
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13
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Yam EA, Sultana N, Hossain T, Zieman B, Roy S, Yasmin R, Sadiq N, Hossain SMI. Reproductive health and desire for children among young female sex workers in Bangladesh brothels. Health Care Women Int 2019; 40:981-994. [PMID: 31161893 DOI: 10.1080/07399332.2019.1623801] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Globally, reproductive health research among female sex workers (FSWs) often focuses on pregnancy prevention, but many women who sell sex aspire to have children in the future. In Bangladesh, where early marriage and parenthood is the norm, we examine reproductive histories and childbearing desires of young women who sell sex in brothels. We interviewed 1061 FSWs aged 18 to 24 in eight brothels in three Bangladesh divisions. Interviewers elicited information on sociodemographic characteristics, contraceptive use, pregnancy history, and childbearing desire. Bivariate and multivariate analyses were conducted to examine correlates of wanting to have a child within 24 months.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eileen A Yam
- Population Council , Washington , District of Columbia , USA
| | | | | | - Brady Zieman
- Population Council , Washington , District of Columbia , USA
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14
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Terplan M, Martin CE, Nail J, Sherman SG. Contraceptive utilization among new exotic dancers: a cross-sectional study. Harm Reduct J 2018; 15:56. [PMID: 30419913 PMCID: PMC6233581 DOI: 10.1186/s12954-018-0261-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2018] [Accepted: 10/29/2018] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Female exotic dancers are a population at high risk of unintended pregnancy. The objective of this study is to describe the reproductive health needs and contraceptive utilization of exotic dancers. Methods New exotic dancers (< 6 months dancing) from 26 clubs in Baltimore City/County completed a one-time survey. Results Of 117 participants, 96 (82%) had current contraceptive need. The mean age was 24 years, and 55% were black. Sex work (45%), alcohol use disorder (73%), illicit (44%; e.g., heroin, crack, cocaine), and injection drug use (8%) were common. The majority (66%) reported contraception use in the prior 6 months. Condoms were reported by 46% whereas 45% reported non-barrier methods, most commonly hormonal injection. Consistent condom use was rare (3%), and only 11% used a long-acting reversible method. Conclusions Despite their unique reproductive health vulnerabilities, female exotic dancers have unmet contraceptive needs. Targeted harm reduction strategies are needed to fill this gap.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mishka Terplan
- Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Psychiatry, Virginia Commonwealth University, PO Box 980268, Richmond, VA, 23298, USA
| | - Caitlin E Martin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Virginia Commonwealth University, PO Box 980034, Richmond, VA, 23298, USA.
| | - Jennifer Nail
- Department of Mental Health, Bloomberg School of Public Health, The Johns Hopkins University, 550 N. Broadway, Baltimore, MD, 22205, USA
| | - Susan G Sherman
- Department of Health Behavior and Society, Bloomberg School of Public Health, The Johns Hopkins University, 624 N. Broadway, Hampton House 749, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
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15
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Le PD, Ryan N, Rosenstock Y, Goldmann E. Health Issues Associated with Commercial Sexual Exploitation and Sex Trafficking of Children in the United States: A Systematic Review. Behav Med 2018; 44:219-233. [PMID: 30020867 DOI: 10.1080/08964289.2018.1432554] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
This article reviews studies examining health issues associated with commercial sexual exploitation and sex trafficking (CSE/ST) of children in the United States. We searched five health and social sciences databases for peer-reviewed articles published in English between January 1990 and April 2017. After independent screening of the records, we identified 27 studies that met the inclusion criteria. Descriptions of the included studies and their definitions of CSE/ST are provided. Most of the studies sampled children and youth in urban, metropolitan areas and employed cross-sectional surveys or reviewed case files and medical records of convenience samples. Studies differed widely in their operationalization of CSE/ST, which limit systematic comparison across studies and the generalizability of findings. Qualitative analysis of the included studies shows that among commercially sexually exploited/trafficked children, there are elevated burdens of substance use and abuse, mental health disorders such as depression, PTSD, suicidal behaviors, and sexual and reproductive health issues including STIs, HIV, and pregnancy. This review underscores the need for more empirical studies, to guide an evidence-based understanding of and response to the range and complexity of the health issues in this population. Of particular utility are studies that address some of the methodological limitations of prior research in this field (e.g., cross-sectional, convenience samples) and those that assess overlooked health issues (e.g., malnutrition, eating disorders, post-trauma growth, and long-term health consequences).
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Affiliation(s)
- PhuongThao D Le
- a Department of Mental Health , Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University
| | - Nessa Ryan
- b College of Global Public Health, New York University
| | - Yael Rosenstock
- c The Center for Ethnic, Racial, and Religious Understanding (CERRU), Queens College
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16
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Ochako R, Okal J, Kimetu S, Askew I, Temmerman M. Female sex workers experiences of using contraceptive methods: a qualitative study in Kenya. BMC WOMENS HEALTH 2018; 18:105. [PMID: 29925361 PMCID: PMC6011601 DOI: 10.1186/s12905-018-0601-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2017] [Accepted: 06/07/2018] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Background Female Sex Workers (FSWs) are predisposed to a broad range of social, sexual and reproductive health problems such as sexually transmitted infections (STIs)/HIV, unintended pregnancy, violence, sexual exploitation, stigma and discrimination. Female sex workers have unmet need for contraceptives and require comprehensive Sexual and Reproductive Health (SRH) prevention interventions. Existing programs pay little attention to the broad sexual and reproductive health and rights of these women and often focus on HIV and other STIs prevention, care and treatment while neglecting their reproductive health needs, including access to family planning methods. The aim of this study is, therefore, to explore the experiences of female sex workers with using existing contraceptive methods, assess individual and health facility-level barriers and document inter-partner relationship in the use of contraceptives. Methods We focus on women aged 15–49, who reported current sex work, defined as ‘providing sexual services in exchange for money or other material compensation as part of an individual’s livelihood.’ Results Findings reveal that while some FSWs know about modern contraceptives, others have limited knowledge or out rightly refuse to use contraceptives for fear of losing clients. The interaction with different client types act as a barrier but also provide an opportunity for contraceptive use among FSWs. Most FSWs recognize the importance of dual protection for HIV/STI and pregnancy prevention. However, myths and misconceptions, fear of being tested for HIV at the family planning clinic, wait time, and long queues at the clinics all act in combination to hinder uptake of contraceptives. Conclusions We recommend a targeted approach to address the contraceptive needs of FSWs to help remove barriers to contraceptive uptake. We also support the introduction of counseling services to provide information on the benefits of non-barrier contraceptive methods and thereby enhance dual use for both pregnancy and STI/HIV prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rhoune Ochako
- School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium. .,Population Council, Nairobi, Kenya.
| | | | - Steven Kimetu
- School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Ian Askew
- Department of Reproductive Health and Research, WHO, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Marleen Temmerman
- International Centre for Reproductive Health, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium.,Aga Khan University, Nairobi, Kenya
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17
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Duff P, Evans JL, Stein ES, Page K, Maher L. High pregnancy incidence and low contraceptive use among a prospective cohort of female entertainment and sex workers in Phnom Penh, Cambodia. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth 2018; 18:128. [PMID: 29724181 PMCID: PMC5934858 DOI: 10.1186/s12884-018-1768-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2016] [Accepted: 04/24/2018] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND While HIV and unintended pregnancies are both occupational risks faced by female sex workers, the epidemiology of pregnancy and its drivers in this population remains understudied. This includes Cambodia, where the drivers of pregnancy among female entertainment and sex workers (FESW) remain unknown. The current study aimed to examine factors associated with incident pregnancy, as well as describe contraceptive use among FESW in Phnom Penh, Cambodia. METHODS This analysis drew from the Young Women's Health Study (YWHS)-2, a 12-month observational cohort of 220 FESW aged 15-29 years, conducted between August 2009 and August 2010. Interviewer-administered questionnaires were conducted at baseline and quarterly thereafter, alongside HIV and pregnancy testing. Bivariate and multivariable extended Cox regression analysis was used to examine correlates of incident pregnancy. RESULTS At baseline, 6.8% of participants were pregnant, and only 10.8% reported using hormonal contraceptives, with 11.3% reporting an abortion in the past 3 months. Pregnancy incidence was high, at 22/100 person-years (95% CI: 16.3-30.1). In multivariable analysis, younger age (19-24 years versus 25-29 years) (Adjusted Hazards Ratio (AHR): 2.28; 95% Confidence Interval (CI) 1.22-4.27), lower income (400,000-600,000 Riel (≤150$USD) versus > 600,000 Riel (> 150$USD)) (AHR 2.63; 95% CI 1.02-6.77) positively predicted pregnancy, while higher self-reported condom self-efficacy were associated with reduced pregnancy incidence (AHR 0.89; 95% CI 0.81-0.98). CONCLUSIONS Results document high incidence of pregnancy and unmet reproductive health needs among FESWs in Cambodia. Findings point to an urgent need for multi-level interventions, including venue-based HIV/STI and violence prevention interventions, in the context of legal and policy reform. High pregnancy incidence in this population may also undermine recruitment and retention into HIV prevention intervention trials. The exploration of innovative and comprehensive sex worker-tailored sexual and reproductive health service models, also as part of HIV prevention intervention trials, is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Putu Duff
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, St. Paul's Hospital, 608-1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC, Canada.,Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, St. Paul's Hospital, 608-1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC, Canada.,Kirby Institute for Infection and Immunity (formerly the National Centre in HIV Epidemiology and Clinical Research), UNSW Australia I, Wallace Wurth Building, Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia
| | - Jennifer L Evans
- Institute for Global Health, Department of Epidemiology, University of California-San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Ellen S Stein
- Institute for Global Health, Department of Epidemiology, University of California-San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Kimberly Page
- Institute for Global Health, Department of Epidemiology, University of California-San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA.,Division of Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Preventive Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, Albuquerque, NM, USA
| | - Lisa Maher
- Kirby Institute for Infection and Immunity (formerly the National Centre in HIV Epidemiology and Clinical Research), UNSW Australia I, Wallace Wurth Building, Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia.
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18
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Rocha-Jiménez T, Morales-Miranda S, Fernández-Casanueva C, Brouwer KC, Goldenberg SM. Stigma and unmet sexual and reproductive health needs among international migrant sex workers at the Mexico-Guatemala border. Int J Gynaecol Obstet 2018; 143:37-43. [PMID: 29328511 DOI: 10.1002/ijgo.12441] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2017] [Revised: 09/26/2017] [Accepted: 01/11/2018] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To explore international migrant sex workers' experiences and narratives pertaining to the unmet need for and access to sexual and reproductive health (SRH) at the Mexico-Guatemala border. METHODS An inductive qualitative analysis was conducted based on ethnographic fieldwork (2012-2015) including participant observation and audio-recorded in-depth interviews. The participants were female sex workers aged 18 years or older and international migrants working at the Mexico-Guatemala border. RESULTS In total, 31 women were included. The greatest areas of unmet need included accessible, affordable, and nonstigmatizing access to contraception and treatment of sexually transmitted infections. On both sides of the border, poor information about the health systems, services affordability, and perceived stigma resulted in barriers to access SRH services, with women preferring to access private doctors in their destination country or delaying uptake of until their next trip home. Financial barriers prevented women from accessing needed services, with most only receiving SRH services in their destination country through public health regulations surrounding sex work or as urgent care. CONCLUSIONS There is a crucial need to avoid prioritizing vertical disease-specific services and to promote access to rights-based SRH services for migrant sex workers in both home and destination settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teresita Rocha-Jiménez
- Division of Global Public Health, University of California, La Jolla, CA, USA.,Graduate School of Public Health, San Diego State University, San Diego, CA, USA
| | | | - Carmen Fernández-Casanueva
- Centro de Investigaciones y Estudios Superiores en Antropología Social (CIESAS), San Cristóbal de las Casas, Mexico
| | - Kimberly C Brouwer
- Division of Global Public Health, University of California, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Shira M Goldenberg
- Division of Global Public Health, University of California, La Jolla, CA, USA.,Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC, Canada.,Gender and Sexual Health Initiative, British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, St. Paul's Hospital, Vancouver, BC, Canada
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19
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Committee Opinion No 708: Improving Awareness of and Screening for Health Risks Among Sex Workers. Obstet Gynecol 2017. [PMID: 28644340 DOI: 10.1097/aog.0000000000002163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
The population of women who sell or exchange sex or intimate sexual services for material goods or services, also called "sex work," often is unrecognized in the typical obstetric and gynecologic practice. The prevalence of this behavior among adult women is difficult to quantify because of its frequent omission from the routine sexual history by women and clinicians. Data on the prevalence of sex work in the United States are largely lacking. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists supports increasing awareness about the health risks, preventive care needs, and limited health care services for female sex workers.
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20
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Simoes E, Gostomzyk J, Brucker SY, Graf J. Psychosocial Stress, Course of Pregnancy and Pregnancy Outcomes in the Context of the Provision of Sexual Services. Geburtshilfe Frauenheilkd 2017; 77:366-376. [PMID: 28553000 PMCID: PMC5406233 DOI: 10.1055/s-0042-124045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2016] [Revised: 11/15/2016] [Accepted: 12/16/2016] [Indexed: 10/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction There has been very little medical research into pregnancies which occur in the context of prostitution, even though the associated health risks for mother and child, e.g. violence or maternal drug abuse, are well known. The aim of this study was to compile and summarize what is known (inter-)nationally about this topic and identify key points of support as part of a uniform standard of healthcare in pregnancy. Material and Methods A selective search of the literature was done in Pubmed and Livivo/Medpilot and in the databases NIH, Cochrane, DARE, NHSEED and HTA on the factors influencing preterm delivery. Results There are no systematic studies on pregnancy risks in the context of sexual services. But there is data available on specific risk factors, for example the increased risk of prematurity associated with sexual/physical violence (OR = 1.28-4.7). The Prostitute Protection Act provides only limited protection for affected women, and statutory maternity protection regulations also have little impact as they require a formal contract of employment which rarely exists even in the context of legal prostitution. Conclusion Approximately 400 000 women are currently working as prostitutes in the Federal Republic of Germany. The number of unreported cases is high. Nevertheless, there is little concrete data available on the probable health risks if these women become pregnant. The existing laws that should offer protection fall short of the mark. There is a need for more research into the future implementation of the Prostitute Protection Act which should focus on health counselling, health promotion and additional protective legislation. Low-threshold healthcare services offered in the context of prenatal care could be an opportunity to improve care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisabeth Simoes
- Department für Frauengesundheit, Universitätsklinikum Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- Forschungsinstitut für Frauengesundheit, Universitätsklinikum Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- Stabsstelle Sozialmedizin, Universitätsklinikum Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | | | - Sara Yvonne Brucker
- Department für Frauengesundheit, Universitätsklinikum Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- Forschungsinstitut für Frauengesundheit, Universitätsklinikum Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Joachim Graf
- Department für Frauengesundheit, Universitätsklinikum Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- Forschungsinstitut für Frauengesundheit, Universitätsklinikum Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
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Erickson M, Goldenberg SM, Akello M, Muzaaya G, Nguyen P, Birungi J, Shannon K. Incarceration and exposure to internally displaced persons camps associated with reproductive rights abuses among sex workers in northern Uganda. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2017; 43:201-209. [PMID: 28183852 DOI: 10.1136/jfprhc-2016-101492] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2016] [Revised: 11/18/2016] [Accepted: 01/16/2017] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND While female sex workers (FSWs) face a high burden of violence and criminalisation, coupled with low access to safe, non-coercive care, little is known about such experiences among FSWs in conflict-affected settings, particularly as they relate to sexual and reproductive health (SRH) and rights. We explored factors associated with lifetime abortions among FSWs in northern Uganda; and separately modelled the independent effect of lifetime exposures to incarceration and living in internally displaced persons (IDP) camps on coerced and unsafe abortions. METHODS Analyses are based on a community-based cross-sectional research project in Gulu District, northern Uganda (2011-2012) with The AIDS Support Organization (TASO) Gulu, FSWs, and other community organisations. We conducted questionnaires, sex worker/community-led outreach to sex work venues, and voluntary HIV testing by TASO. RESULTS Of 400 FSWs, 62 had ever accessed an abortion. In a multivariable model, gendered violence, both childhood mistreatment/or abuse at home [adjusted odds ratio (AOR) 1.96; 95% confidence interval (95% CI) 0.99-3.90] and workplace violence by clients (AOR 3.57; 95% CI 1.31-9.72) were linked to increased experiences of abortion. Lifetime exposure to incarceration retained an independent effect on increased odds of coerced abortion (AOR 5.16; 95% CI 1.39-19.11), and living in IDP camps was positively associated with unsafe abortion (AOR 4.71; 95% CI 1.42-15.61). DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS These results suggest a critical need for removal of legal and social barriers to realising the SRH rights of all women, and ensuring safe, voluntary access to reproductive choice for marginalised and criminalised populations of FSWs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margaret Erickson
- Gender and Sexual Health Initiative, British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Shira M Goldenberg
- Gender and Sexual Health Initiative, British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, British Columbia, Canada
| | | | | | - Paul Nguyen
- Gender and Sexual Health Initiative, British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | | | - Kate Shannon
- Gender and Sexual Health Initiative, British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
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Goldenberg SM, Krüsi A, Zhang E, Chettiar J, Shannon K. Structural Determinants of Health among Im/Migrants in the Indoor Sex Industry: Experiences of Workers and Managers/Owners in Metropolitan Vancouver. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0170642. [PMID: 28141835 PMCID: PMC5283672 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0170642] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2016] [Accepted: 01/09/2017] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Globally, im/migrant women are overrepresented in the sex industry and experience disproportionate health inequities. Despite evidence that the health impacts of migration may vary according to the timing and stage of migration (e.g., early arrival vs. long-term migration), limited evidence exists regarding social and structural determinants of health across different stages of migration, especially among im/migrants engaged in sex work. Our aim was to describe and analyze the evolving social and structural determinants of health and safety across the arrival and settlement process for im/migrants in the indoor sex industry. Methods We analyzed qualitative interviews conducted with 44 im/migrant sex workers and managers/owners working in indoor sex establishments (e.g., massage parlours, micro-brothels) in Metropolitan Vancouver, Canada in 2011; quantitative data from AESHA, a larger community-based cohort, were used to describe socio-demographic and social and structural characteristics of im/migrant sex workers. Results Based on quantitative data among 198 im/migrant workers in AESHA, 78.3% were Chinese-born, the median duration in Canada was 6 years, and most (86.4%) serviced clients in formal indoor establishments. Qualitative narratives revealed diverse pathways into sex work upon arrival to Canada, including language barriers to conventional labour markets and the higher pay and relative flexibility of sex work. Once engaged in sex work, fear associated with police raids (e.g., immigration concerns, sex work disclosure) and language barriers to sexual negotiation and health, social and legal supports posed pervasive challenges to health, safety and human rights during long-term settlement in Canada. Conclusions Findings highlight the critical influences of criminalization, language barriers, and stigma and discrimination related to sex work and im/migrant status in shaping occupational health and safety for im/migrants engaged in sex work. Interventions and policy reforms that emphasize human rights and occupational health are needed to promote health and wellbeing across the arrival and settlement process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shira M. Goldenberg
- Gender and Sexual Health Initiative, British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, B.C., Canada
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, 8888 University Drive, Burnaby, BC, Canada
- * E-mail:
| | - Andrea Krüsi
- Gender and Sexual Health Initiative, British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, B.C., Canada
- Division of AIDS, Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, B.C., Canada
| | - Emma Zhang
- Gender and Sexual Health Initiative, British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, B.C., Canada
| | - Jill Chettiar
- Gender and Sexual Health Initiative, British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, B.C., Canada
| | - Kate Shannon
- Gender and Sexual Health Initiative, British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, B.C., Canada
- Division of AIDS, Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, B.C., Canada
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23
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Madeiro AP, Diniz D. Induced abortion among Brazilian female sex workers: a qualitative study. CIENCIA & SAUDE COLETIVA 2016; 20:587-93. [PMID: 25715152 DOI: 10.1590/1413-81232015202.11202014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2014] [Accepted: 08/06/2014] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Prostitutes are vulnerable to unplanned pregnancies and abortions. In Brazil, abortion is a crime and there is no data about unsafe abortions for this population. The study describes how prostitutes perform illegal abortions and the health consequences thereof. Semi-structured interviews with 39 prostitutes from three cities in Brazil with previous induced abortion experience were conducted. Sixty-six abortions, with between one and eight occurrences per woman, were recorded. The majority of the cases resulted from sexual activity with clients. The inconsistent use of condoms with regular clients and the consumption of alcohol during work were indicated as the main causes of unplanned pregnancies. The main method to perform abortion was the intravaginal and oral use of misoprostol, acquired in pharmacies or on the black market. Invasive measures were less frequently reported, however with more serious health complications. The fear of complaint to the police meant that most women do not inform the health team regarding induced abortion. The majority of prostitutes aborted with the use of illegally-acquired misoprostol, ending abortion in a public hospital with infection and hemorrhagic complications. The data indicate the need for a public policy focusing on the reproductive health of prostitutes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alberto Pereira Madeiro
- Núcleo de Pesquisa e Extensão em Saúde da Mulher, Universidade Estadual do Piauí, Teresina, PI, Brasil,
| | - Debora Diniz
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Política Social, Universidade de Brasília
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Karamouzian M, Mirzazadeh A, Shokoohi M, Khajehkazemi R, Sedaghat A, Haghdoost AA, Sharifi H. Lifetime Abortion of Female Sex Workers in Iran: Findings of a National Bio-Behavioural Survey In 2010. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0166042. [PMID: 27861487 PMCID: PMC5115696 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0166042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2016] [Accepted: 10/22/2016] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Unintended pregnancies and abortion may be considered as occupational hazards for female sex workers (FSWs). As our understanding of contraceptive and abortion practices of Iranian FSWs is very limited, this study tries to assess the dynamics of contraception and abortion among this sub-population. Methods This survey was conducted in 2010, by recruiting 872 FSWs through facility-based sampling from 21 sites in 14 cities in Iran. Data were collected through face-to-face interviews using a pilot-tested standardized risk assessment questionnaire. We applied the logistic regression model to investigate the correlates of induced abortion among FSWs. Results Of the 863 participants with valid responses to the abortion variable, 35.3% (95% CI: 32.1–38.6) acknowledged ever induced abortion and the annual rate of abortion was estimated at 20.7 per 1000 women. Around 31.2% of FSWs reported no usual contraceptive use, 32.6% barrier method, 23.6% non-barrier modern contraception methods, and 12.5% dual protection. In our multivariable model, older age (Adjusted Odds Ratio (AOR) = 1.74, 95% Confidence Interval (CI): 1.02, 2.96), group sex (AOR = 1.92, 95% CI: 1.10, 3.35), history of travel for sex work (AOR = 1.55, 95% CI: 1.09, 2.20), sexual violence (AOR = 1.77, 95% CI: 1.25, 2.50), STIs in last year (AOR = 1.53, 95% CI: 1.09, 2.14), and accessing family planning services (AOR = 1.76, 95% CI: 1.24, 2.49) were significant predictors of lifetime abortion. Conclusions The reproductive health needs of Iranian FSWs are unmet and around one-third of FSWs reported induced abortion. Scaling-up comprehensive family planning services and empowering FSWs to have safer sex practices may help them to prevent unintended pregnancies and further risk of HIV transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Karamouzian
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
- School of Population and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Ali Mirzazadeh
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States of America
| | - Mostafa Shokoohi
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
- Epidemiology & Biostatistics, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, The University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada
| | - Razieh Khajehkazemi
- Modeling in Health Research Center, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Abbas Sedaghat
- Center for Disease Control (CDC), Ministry of Health and Medical Education, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ali Akbar Haghdoost
- Modeling in Health Research Center, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Hamid Sharifi
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
- * E-mail:
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25
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Contraceptive use and method choice among women with opioid and other substance use disorders: A systematic review. Prev Med 2015; 80:23-31. [PMID: 25900803 PMCID: PMC4842019 DOI: 10.1016/j.ypmed.2015.04.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 112] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2015] [Revised: 04/07/2015] [Accepted: 04/14/2015] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
AIM To systematically review the literature on contraceptive use by women with opioid and other substance use disorders in order to estimate overall contraceptive use and to examine method choice given the alarmingly high rate of unintended pregnancy in this population. METHOD Pubmed (1948-2014) and PsycINFO (1806-2014) databases were searched for peer-reviewed journal articles using a systematic search strategy. Only articles published in English and reporting contraceptive use within samples of women with opioid and other substance use disorders were eligible for inclusion. RESULTS Out of 580 abstracts reviewed, 105 articles were given a full-text review, and 24 studies met the inclusion criteria. The majority (51%) of women in these studies reported using opioids, with much smaller percentages reporting alcohol and cocaine use. Across studies, contraceptive prevalence ranged widely, from 6%-77%, with a median of 55%. Results from a small subset of studies (N=6) suggest that women with opioid and other substance use disorders used contraception less often than non-drug-using comparison populations (56% vs. 81%, respectively). Regarding method choice, condoms were the most prevalent method, accounting for a median of 62% of contraceptives used, while use of more effective methods, especially implants and intrauterine devices (IUDs), was far less prevalent 8%. CONCLUSIONS Women with opioid and other substance use disorders have an unmet need for contraception, especially for the most effective methods. Offering contraception services in conjunction with substance use treatment and promoting use of more effective methods could help meet this need and reduce unintended pregnancy in this population.
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26
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Martin CE, Wirtz AL, Mogilniy V, Peryshkina A, Beyrer C, Decker MR. Contraceptive use among female sex workers in three Russian cities. Int J Gynaecol Obstet 2015; 131:156-60. [PMID: 26387467 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijgo.2015.06.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2014] [Revised: 05/27/2015] [Accepted: 08/20/2015] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine the prevalence of, and factors associated with, use of non-barrier contraception (intrauterine device, hormonal contraceptives, and female sterilization) among female sex workers (FSWs) in three Russian cities. METHODS A secondary analysis of data from a cross-sectional survey of FSWs aged 18 years and older from Kazan, Krasnoyarsk, and Tomsk was undertaken. Participants had completed a one-time computer-based survey in 2011. Among the 708 with a current contraceptive need, logistic regression was used to evaluate factors associated with use of non-barrier contraceptives. RESULTS Use of non-barrier contraceptives was reported by 237 (33.5%) FSWs. Use of non-barrier contraceptives was associated with being in sex work longer (≥ 4 years vs < 1 year: adjusted odds ratio [AOR] 4.70; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.51-14.66) and having a non-paying partner (AOR 2.02; 95% CI 1.32-3.11). Odds of non-barrier contraception were reduced among FSWs who had ever worked with a pimp/momka (AOR 0.46; 95% CI 0.24-0.87), who had experienced recent client-perpetrated violence (AOR 0.19; 95% CI 0.07-0.52), or reporting consistent condom use (AOR 0.30; 95% CI 0.16-0.54). Only 13 (5.5%) of the 237 FSWs using non-barrier contraception reported consistent condom use. CONCLUSION Only one-third reported use of non-barrier contraception, suggesting substantial unmet contraceptive needs. FSWs are an important target population for family planning, reproductive health counseling, and care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caitlin E Martin
- Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Andrea L Wirtz
- Center for Public Health and Human Rights, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA; Department of Emergency Medicine, Johns Hopkins Medical Institute, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | | | | | - Chris Beyrer
- Center for Public Health and Human Rights, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA; Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Michele R Decker
- Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA; Center for Public Health and Human Rights, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA.
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27
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Duff P, Shoveller J, Chettiar J, Feng C, Nicoletti R, Shannon K. Sex Work and Motherhood: Social and Structural Barriers to Health and Social Services for Pregnant and Parenting Street and Off-Street Sex Workers. Health Care Women Int 2015; 36:1039-55. [PMID: 25513844 PMCID: PMC4469630 DOI: 10.1080/07399332.2014.989437] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Our study documents the correlates of barriers to pregnancy and mothering among sex workers in Vancouver, Canada. We used baseline data from An Evaluation of Sex Workers' Health Access (AESHA), a prospective cohort of sex workers. Among the 399 sex workers who had ever been pregnant or had a child, 35% reported having ever experienced a barrier, with lower education, homelessness, and history of injecting drugs significantly correlated with pregnancy and mothering barriers. Our findings highlight a critical need for tailored and nonjudgmental services and supports, including improved programs to address intersecting aspects of poverty, health literacy, stigma, and substance use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Putu Duff
- a British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, St. Paul's Hospital , Vancouver , British Columbia , Canada
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28
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Deering KN, Shaw SY, Thompson LH, Ramanaik S, Raghavendra T, Doddamane M, Bhattacharjee P, Moses S, Lorway R. Fertility intentions, power relations and condom use within intimate and other non-paying partnerships of women in sex work in Bagalkot District, South India. AIDS Care 2015; 27:1241-9. [PMID: 26295360 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2015.1050981] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
This study aimed to: (1) examine the relationship between interpersonal as well as social-demographic, cultural and structural factors, and condom non-use by sex workers' main intimate or other non-paying male sex partners (NPPs), as reported by a sample of sex workers (SWs); and (2) understand HIV/sexually transmitted infections (STIs) risk (e.g., numbers of sexual partners; condom use with different partners) among couples comprised of a sub-set of SWs and their NPPs. Bivariate and multivariable logistic regression was used to identify factors associated with condom non-use at last sex by the main NPP, as reported by SWs. Adjusted odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals are reported (AOR[95%CIs]). Data were drawn from cross-sectional surveys in Bagalkot District, Karnataka State, South India. Responses by SWs whose main NPPs agreed to enrol in the study and the main NPP enroled were linked; these responses by couples (pairs of SWs and NPPs) were examined to assess sexual risk for HIV/STIs. Overall, this study included 257 SWs and 76 NPPs. The data from 67 couples (88.2%) could be linked. In over a quarter of partnerships, at least one (SW or NPP) partner reported having another type of partner besides each other (and clients of SWs). In multivariable analysis, significantly increased odds of condom non-use at last sex with the main NPP were found for the following key factors: planning to have a child with their main NPP (AOR = 3.71[1.44-9.58]); and having decisions about condom use made by their main NPP (AOR = 9.87[4.03-24.16]) or both equally (AOR = 3.18[1.39-7.80]) (versus by the SWs herself). Our study highlights the potential risk for HIV/STI acquisition and transmission between NPPs and SWs, and between NPPs and their non-SWs wives and other sex partners. Study results underscore the need for HIV/STI prevention approaches that incorporate informed decision-making about childbearing and parenting, and empowerment strategies for SWs in the context of their relationships with NPPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathleen N Deering
- a Faculty of Medicine, Division of AIDS , University of British Columbia , Vancouver , Canada.,b BC Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, St. Paul's Hospital , Vancouver , Canada
| | - Souradet Y Shaw
- c Faculty of Medicine, Community Health Sciences , University of Manitoba , Winnipeg , Canada
| | - Laura H Thompson
- c Faculty of Medicine, Community Health Sciences , University of Manitoba , Winnipeg , Canada
| | | | - T Raghavendra
- d Karnataka Health Promotion Trust , Bangalore , India
| | | | | | - Stephen Moses
- c Faculty of Medicine, Community Health Sciences , University of Manitoba , Winnipeg , Canada.,e Faculty of Medicine, Medical Microbiology , University of Manitoba , Winnipeg , Canada
| | - Robert Lorway
- c Faculty of Medicine, Community Health Sciences , University of Manitoba , Winnipeg , Canada
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29
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Schwartz SR, Baral S. Fertility-related research needs among women at the margins. REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH MATTERS 2015; 23:30-46. [PMID: 26278831 DOI: 10.1016/j.rhm.2015.06.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2015] [Revised: 05/29/2015] [Accepted: 06/08/2015] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Fertility-related research encompasses fertility intentions, preconception care, research amongst pregnant women, and post-partum outcomes of mothers and children. However, some women remain under-represented within this domain of study. Women frequently missing within fertility-related research include those who are already the most vulnerable to health disparities, including female sex workers, lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender women, women living with HIV, and women who use drugs. Yet characterization of the needs of these women is important, given their unique fertility-related concerns, including risks and barriers to care emanating from social stigmas and discrimination. This synthesis provides an overview of fertility-related evidence, highlighting where there are clear research gaps among marginalized women and the potential implications of these data shortfalls. Overall, research among marginalized women to date has addressed pregnancy prevention and in some cases fertility intentions, but the majority of studies have focused on post-conception pregnancy safety and the well-being of the child. However, among female sex workers specifically, data on pregnancy safety and the well-being of the child are largely unavailable. Within each marginalized group, preconception care and effectiveness of conception methods are consistently understudied. Ultimately, the absence of epidemiologic, clinical and programmatic evidence limits the availability and quality of reproductive health services for all women and prevents social action to address these gaps.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheree R Schwartz
- Assistant Scientist, Center for Public Health and Human Rights, Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA.
| | - Stefan Baral
- Associate Professor, Center for Public Health and Human Rights, Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
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30
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Duff P, Shoveller J, Dobrer S, Ogilvie G, Montaner J, Chettiar J, Shannon K. The relationship between social, policy and physical venue features and social cohesion on condom use for pregnancy prevention among sex workers: a safer indoor work environment scale. J Epidemiol Community Health 2015; 69:666-72. [PMID: 25678713 PMCID: PMC4675653 DOI: 10.1136/jech-2014-204427] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2014] [Accepted: 01/23/2015] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study aims to report on a newly developed Safer Indoor Work Environmental Scale that characterises the social, policy and physical features of indoor venues and social cohesion; and using this scale, longitudinally evaluate the association between these features on sex workers' (SWs') condom use for pregnancy prevention. METHODS Drawing on a prospective open cohort of female SWs working in indoor venues, a newly developed Safer Indoor Work Environment Scale was used to build six multivariable models with generalised estimating equations (GEE), to determine the independent effects of social, policy and physical venue-based features and social cohesion on condom use. RESULTS Of 588 indoor SWs, 63.6% used condoms for pregnancy prevention in the last month. In multivariable GEE analysis, the following venue-based features were significantly correlated with barrier contraceptive use for pregnancy prevention: managerial practices and venue safety policies (adjusted OR (AOR)=1.09; 95% CI 1.01 to 1.17), access to sexual and reproductive health services/supplies (AOR=1.10; 95% CI 1.00 to 1.20), access to drug harm reduction (AOR=1.13; 95% CI 1.01 to 1.28) and social cohesion among workers (AOR=1.05; 95% CI 1.03 to 1.07). Access to security features was marginally associated with condom use (AOR=1.13; 95% CI 0.99 to 1.29). CONCLUSIONS The findings of the current study highlight how work environment and social cohesion among SWs are related to improved condom use. Given global calls for the decriminalisation of sex work, and potential legislative reforms in Canada, this study points to the critical need for new institutional arrangements (eg, legal and regulatory frameworks; labour standards) to support safer sex workplaces.
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Affiliation(s)
- Putu Duff
- Gender and Sexual Health Initiative, British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, St. Paul’s Hospital, 608-1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC, CANADA, V6Z 1Y6
- School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, 5804 Fairview Avenue, Vancouver, BC, CANADA, V6T 1Z3
| | - Jean Shoveller
- School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, 5804 Fairview Avenue, Vancouver, BC, CANADA, V6T 1Z3
| | - Sabina Dobrer
- Gender and Sexual Health Initiative, British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, St. Paul’s Hospital, 608-1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC, CANADA, V6Z 1Y6
| | - Gina Ogilvie
- British Columbia Centre for Disease Control, 655 West 12 Avenue, Vancouver, BC, CANADA, V5Z 454
| | - Julio Montaner
- Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, St. Paul’s Hospital, 608-1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC, CANADA, V6Z 1Y6
| | - Jill Chettiar
- Gender and Sexual Health Initiative, British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, St. Paul’s Hospital, 608-1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC, CANADA, V6Z 1Y6
| | - Kate Shannon
- Gender and Sexual Health Initiative, British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, St. Paul’s Hospital, 608-1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC, CANADA, V6Z 1Y6
- Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, St. Paul’s Hospital, 608-1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC, CANADA, V6Z 1Y6
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Structural determinants of dual contraceptive use among female sex workers in Gulu, northern Uganda. Int J Gynaecol Obstet 2015; 131:91-5. [PMID: 26118326 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijgo.2015.04.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2014] [Revised: 03/23/2015] [Accepted: 05/22/2015] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To describe the characteristics of female sex workers (FSWs) who do and do not use dual contraceptives (i.e. male condoms plus a non-barrier method) in Gulu, northern Uganda. METHODS The present analysis was based on data gathered as part of a questionnaire-based, cross-sectional study conducted between May 2011 and January 2012. FSWs aged 14 years or older were recruited through peer-led or sex worker-led outreach and community-based services. Logistic regression was used to identify correlates of dual contraceptive use. RESULTS Among the 400 FSWs who participated, 180 (45.0%) had ever used dual contraceptives. In the multivariate model, dual contraceptive use was positively associated with older age (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] 1.09, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.04-1.15; P=0.001), prior unintended pregnancy (AOR 1.53, 95% CI 1.01-2.34; P=0.046), and HIV testing (AOR 5.22, 95% CI 1.75-15.57; P=0.003). Having to rush sexual negotiations owing to police presence was negatively associated with dual contraceptive use (AOR 0.65, 95% CI 0.42-1.00; P=0.050). CONCLUSION Although a history of unintended pregnancy and accessing HIV testing might promote contraceptive use, criminalized work environments continue to pose barriers to uptake of sexual and reproductive health services among FSWs in post-conflict northern Uganda. Integrated links between HIV and sexual health programs could support contraceptive uptake among FSWs.
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Iversen J, Page K, Madden A, Maher L. HIV, HCV, and Health-Related Harms Among Women Who Inject Drugs: Implications for Prevention and Treatment. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2015; 69 Suppl 2:S176-81. [PMID: 25978485 PMCID: PMC4505917 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000000659] [Citation(s) in RCA: 119] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although an estimated 3.5 million women inject drugs globally, women are outnumbered 4 to one by men who inject drugs and are often ignored or overlooked in the development and delivery of prevention and treatment services for this population. This study aimed to identify key comorbidities prevalent among women who inject drugs (WWID), consider factors that contribute to vulnerability of this population, and examine implications for prevention and treatment. METHODS The literature was reviewed to examine the specific challenges and needs of WWID. We searched health-related bibliographic databases and grey literature to identify studies conducted among WWID and studies conducted among people who inject drugs (PWID), where results were disaggregated by gender and policies/guidelines/reports relevant to WWID. RESULTS WWID face a range of unique, gender-specific, and often additional challenges and barriers. The lack of a targeted focus on WWID by prevention and treatment services and harm-reduction programs increases women's vulnerability to a range of health-related harms, including blood-borne viral and sexually transmitted infections, injection-related injuries, mental health issues, physical and sexual violence, poor sexual and reproductive health, issues in relation to childbearing and child care, and pervasive stigma and discrimination. CONCLUSIONS There is a need to improve the collection and reporting of gender-disaggregated data on prevalence of key infections and prevention and treatment service access and program coverage. Women-focussed services and integrating gender equity and human rights into the harm-reduction programming will be a prerequisite if improvements in the health, safety, and well-being of this often invisible and highly vulnerable population are to be achieved.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kimberly Page
- Department of Epidemiology, Biostatistics & Preventive Medicine, University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, University of New Mexico, USA
| | - Annie Madden
- Australian Injecting and Illicit Drug Users League (AIVL)
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Delany-Moretlwe S, Cowan FM, Busza J, Bolton-Moore C, Kelley K, Fairlie L. Providing comprehensive health services for young key populations: needs, barriers and gaps. J Int AIDS Soc 2015; 18:19833. [PMID: 25724511 PMCID: PMC4344539 DOI: 10.7448/ias.18.2.19833] [Citation(s) in RCA: 118] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2014] [Revised: 01/08/2015] [Accepted: 01/21/2015] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Adolescence is a time of physical, emotional and social transitions that have implications for health. In addition to being at high risk for HIV, young key populations (YKP) may experience other health problems attributable to high-risk behaviour or their developmental stage, or a combination of both. METHODS We reviewed the needs, barriers and gaps for other non-HIV health services for YKP. We searched PubMed and Google Scholar for articles that provided specific age-related data on sexual and reproductive health; mental health; violence; and substance use problems for adolescent, youth or young sex workers, men who have sex with men, transgender people, and people who inject drugs. RESULTS YKP experience more unprotected sex, sexually transmitted infections including HIV, unintended pregnancy, violence, mental health disorders and substance use compared to older members of key populations and youth among the general population. YKP experience significant barriers to accessing care; coverage of services is low, largely because of stigma and discrimination experienced at both the health system and policy levels. DISCUSSION YKP require comprehensive, integrated services that respond to their specific developmental needs, including health, educational and social services within the context of a human rights-based approach. The recent WHO Consolidated Guidelines on HIV Prevention, Diagnosis, Treatment and Care for Key Populations are an important first step for a more comprehensive approach to HIV programming for YKP, but there are limited data on the effective delivery of combined interventions for YKP. Significant investments in research and implementation will be required to ensure adequate provision and coverage of services for YKP. In addition, greater commitments to harm reduction and rights-based approaches are needed to address structural barriers to access to care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sinead Delany-Moretlwe
- Wits RHI, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa;
| | - Frances M Cowan
- CeSHHAR Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe
- Department of Infection and Population Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Joanna Busza
- Department of Population Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | | | - Karen Kelley
- Wits RHI, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Lee Fairlie
- Wits RHI, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
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Weldegebreal R, Melaku YA, Alemayehu M, Gebrehiwot TG. Unintended pregnancy among female sex workers in Mekelle city, northern Ethiopia: a cross-sectional study. BMC Public Health 2015; 15:40. [PMID: 25636515 PMCID: PMC4320639 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-015-1366-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2014] [Accepted: 01/06/2015] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Unintended pregnancy is a significant public health concern in the world. Particularly, female sex workers are exposed to the risk of unintended pregnancy, abortion and their consequences. The aim of this study was, therefore, to assess unintended pregnancy and associated factors among female sex workers in Mekelle city, northern Ethiopia. Methods A community based cross-sectional study was conducted among 346 female sex workers from five Kebelles (smallest administrative units in Ethiopia) of Mekelle city from March-April, 2014. Sex workers were selected with simple random sampling technique using sampling frame obtained from urban health extension program. Epi-data version 3.1 was used to enter data and analysis was done using SPSS version 20. Bivariate and multivariate logistic regressions were performed to identify factors associated with unintended pregnancy using odds ratio and 95% confidence interval with P-value of 0.05. Results The magnitude of unintended pregnancy among female sex workers in the past two years was 28.6%. During this period, 59 women had abortion which represents three-fifths, (59.6%), of those who had unintended pregnancies, and 17.1% of all female sex workers. Female sex workers who gave birth and had history of abortion formerly had 3.1 (AOR = 3.07, 95% CI: [1.54, 6.09]) and 15.6 (AOR = 15.64 95% CI: [8.03, 30.47]) times higher odds of unintended pregnancy compared to their counterparts, respectively. Sex workers who had steady partners had 2.9 (AOR = 2.87, 95% CI: [1.47, 5.61]) times higher odds of have unintended pregnancy than those who hadn’t. Drug users had 2.7 (AOR = 2.68, 95% CI: [1.30, 5.52]) times higher odds of unintended pregnancy than those who hadn’t use. Sex workers who had 60–96 months of duration in sex work were 67% less likely to have unintended pregnancy than those with <12 months (AOR = 0.33, 95% CI: [0.11, 0.95]). Conclusions High level of unintended pregnancy and a range of associated factors were identified among sex workers. Improving utilization of effective pregnancy prevention methods in a consistent manner can avert the existing high level of unintended pregnancy among female sex workers. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12889-015-1366-5) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Yohannes Adama Melaku
- Department of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Mekelle University, PO Box 1871, Mekelle, Ethiopia.
| | - Mussie Alemayehu
- Department of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Mekelle University, PO Box 1871, Mekelle, Ethiopia.
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"Like a lots happened with my whole childhood": violence, trauma, and addiction in pregnant and postpartum women from Vancouver's Downtown Eastside. Harm Reduct J 2015; 12:1. [PMID: 25971892 PMCID: PMC4429901 DOI: 10.1186/1477-7517-12-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2014] [Accepted: 11/20/2014] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Women living in poor and vulnerable neighbourhoods like Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside (DTES) face multiple burdens related to the social determinants of health. Many of them struggle with addiction, are involved in the sex trade and experience homelessness and gender-based violence. Such evidence suggests that psychological trauma is also a common experience for these women. Methods The purpose of this qualitative study was to explore themes and subjective perspectives of trauma and gender-based violence in women who lived in an impoverished neighbourhood and struggled with substance use during pregnancy and early motherhood. We interviewed 27 individuals accessing harm reduction services for pregnant and postpartum women in Vancouver, Canada. Results Key themes that emerged from these women’s narratives highlighted the ubiquity of multiple and continuing forms of adversities and trauma from childhood to adulthood, in a variety of contexts, through a variety of offenders and on multiple levels. Both individual and environmental/structural conditions mutually intensified each other, interfering with a natural resolution of trauma-related symptoms and substance use. Women were also concerned that trauma could be passed on from one generation to the next, yet expressed hesitation when asked about their interest in trauma-specific counselling. Conclusions In offering harm reduction services for poor and marginalized women, it is clear that an understanding of trauma must be integrated. It is recommended that service providers integrate trauma-informed care into their programme in order to offer this service in a trusted environment. However, it is also necessary to shift the focus from the individual to include environmental, social, economic and policy interventions on multiple levels and from issues of drug use and reduction of drug-related harms to include issues of gendered vulnerabilities and human rights.
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Torchalla I, Linden IA, Strehlau V, Neilson EK, Krausz M. "Like a lots happened with my whole childhood": violence, trauma, and addiction in pregnant and postpartum women from Vancouver's Downtown Eastside. Harm Reduct J 2015; 11:34. [PMID: 25928082 PMCID: PMC4351972 DOI: 10.1186/1477-7517-11-34] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2014] [Accepted: 11/20/2014] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Women living in poor and vulnerable neighbourhoods like Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside (DTES) face multiple burdens related to the social determinants of health. Many of them struggle with addiction, are involved in the sex trade and experience homelessness and gender-based violence. Such evidence suggests that psychological trauma is also a common experience for these women. Methods The purpose of this qualitative study was to explore themes and subjective perspectives of trauma and gender-based violence in women who lived in an impoverished neighbourhood and struggled with substance use during pregnancy and early motherhood. We interviewed 27 individuals accessing harm reduction services for pregnant and postpartum women in Vancouver, Canada. Results Key themes that emerged from these women’s narratives highlighted the ubiquity of multiple and continuing forms of adversities and trauma from childhood to adulthood, in a variety of contexts, through a variety of offenders and on multiple levels. Both individual and environmental/structural conditions mutually intensified each other, interfering with a natural resolution of trauma-related symptoms and substance use. Women were also concerned that trauma could be passed on from one generation to the next, yet expressed hesitation when asked about their interest in trauma-specific counselling. Conclusions In offering harm reduction services for poor and marginalized women, it is clear that an understanding of trauma must be integrated. It is recommended that service providers integrate trauma-informed care into their programme in order to offer this service in a trusted environment. However, it is also necessary to shift the focus from the individual to include environmental, social, economic and policy interventions on multiple levels and from issues of drug use and reduction of drug-related harms to include issues of gendered vulnerabilities and human rights.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iris Torchalla
- Centre for Health Evaluation and Outcome Sciences (CHÉOS), St. Paul's Hospital, 588-1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC, V6Z 1Y6, Canada. .,Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, Detwiller Pavilion, 2255 Westbrook Mall, Vancouver, BC, V6T 2A1, Canada.
| | - Isabelle Aube Linden
- Centre for Health Evaluation and Outcome Sciences (CHÉOS), St. Paul's Hospital, 588-1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC, V6Z 1Y6, Canada
| | - Verena Strehlau
- Centre for Health Evaluation and Outcome Sciences (CHÉOS), St. Paul's Hospital, 588-1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC, V6Z 1Y6, Canada.,Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, Detwiller Pavilion, 2255 Westbrook Mall, Vancouver, BC, V6T 2A1, Canada
| | - Erika K Neilson
- Centre for Health Evaluation and Outcome Sciences (CHÉOS), St. Paul's Hospital, 588-1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC, V6Z 1Y6, Canada
| | - Michael Krausz
- Centre for Health Evaluation and Outcome Sciences (CHÉOS), St. Paul's Hospital, 588-1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC, V6Z 1Y6, Canada.,Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, Detwiller Pavilion, 2255 Westbrook Mall, Vancouver, BC, V6T 2A1, Canada.,School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, James Mather Building; 5804 Fairview Avenue, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z3, Canada
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Kim SR, Goldenberg SM, Duff P, Nguyen P, Gibson K, Shannon K. Uptake of a women-only, sex-work-specific drop-in center and links with sexual and reproductive health care for sex workers. Int J Gynaecol Obstet 2014; 128:201-5. [PMID: 25627707 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijgo.2014.09.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2014] [Revised: 09/22/2014] [Accepted: 11/17/2014] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To longitudinally examine female sex workers' (FSWs') uptake of a women-only, sex-work-specific drop-in service and its impact on their access to sexual and reproductive health (SRH) services. METHODS For the present longitudinal analysis, data were drawn from the AESHA (An Evaluation of Sex Workers' Health Access) study, a community-based, open, prospective cohort of FSWs from Vancouver, BC, Canada. Data obtained between January 2010 and February 2013 were analyzed. Participants are followed up on a semi-annual basis. Multivariable logistic regression using generalized estimating equations was used to identify correlates of service uptake. RESULTS Of 547 FSWs included in the present analysis, 330 (60.3%) utilized the services during the 3-year study period. Service use was independently associated with age (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] 1.04; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.03-1.06), Aboriginal ancestry (AOR 2.18; 95% CI 1.61-2.95), injection drug use (AOR 1.67; 95% CI 1.29-2.17), exchange of sex for drugs (AOR 1.40; 95%CI 1.15-1.71), and accessing SRH services (AOR 1.65; 95% CI 1.35-2.02). CONCLUSION A sex-work-specific drop-in space for marginalized FSWs had high uptake. Women-centered and low-threshold drop-in services can effectively link marginalized women with SRH services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soyoun Rachel Kim
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Shira M Goldenberg
- Gender and Sexual Health Initiative, BC Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, St. Paul's Hospital, Vancouver, BC, Canada; Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, St. Paul's Hospital, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Putu Duff
- Gender and Sexual Health Initiative, BC Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, St. Paul's Hospital, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Paul Nguyen
- Gender and Sexual Health Initiative, BC Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, St. Paul's Hospital, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Kate Gibson
- WISH Drop-In Centre Society, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Kate Shannon
- Gender and Sexual Health Initiative, BC Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, St. Paul's Hospital, Vancouver, BC, Canada; Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, St. Paul's Hospital, Vancouver, BC, Canada.
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Argento E, Muldoon KA, Duff P, Simo A, Deering KN, Shannon K. High prevalence and partner correlates of physical and sexual violence by intimate partners among street and off-street sex workers. PLoS One 2014; 9:e102129. [PMID: 25010362 PMCID: PMC4092091 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0102129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2013] [Accepted: 06/16/2014] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives Intimate partner violence (IPV) is associated with increased risk of HIV among women globally. There is limited evidence and understanding about IPV and potential HIV risk pathways among sex workers (SWs). This study aims to longitudinally evaluate prevalence and correlates of IPV among street and off-street SWs over two-years follow-up. Methods Longitudinal data were drawn from an open prospective cohort, AESHA (An Evaluation of Sex Workers Health Access) in Metro Vancouver, Canada (2010–2012). Prevalence of physical and sexual IPV was measured using the WHO standardized IPV scale (version 9.9). Bivariate and multivariable logistic regression using Generalized Estimating Equations (GEE) were used to examine interpersonal and structural correlates of IPV over two years. Results At baseline, 387 SWs had a male, intimate sexual partner and were eligible for this analysis. One-fifth (n = 83, 21.5%) experienced recent physical/sexual IPV at baseline and 26.2% over two-years follow-up. In multivariable GEE analysis, factors independently correlated with physical/sexual IPV in the last six months include: childhood (<18 years) sexual/physical abuse (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 2.05, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.14–3.69), inconsistent condom use for vaginal and/or anal sex with intimate partner (AOR = 1.84, 95% CI: 1.07–3.16), <daily prescription opioid use (AOR = 1.72, 95% CI: 1.02–2.89), providing financial support to intimate partner (AOR = 1.65, 95% CI: 1.05–2.59), and sourcing drugs from intimate partner (AOR = 1.62, 95% CI: 1.02–2.26). Discussion Our results demonstrate that over one-fifth of SWs in Vancouver report physical/sexual IPV in the last six months. The socio-structural correlates of IPV uncovered here highlight potential HIV risk pathways through SWs’ intimate, non-commercial partner relationships. The high prevalence of IPV among SWs is a critical public health concern and underscores the need for integrated violence and HIV prevention and intervention strategies tailored to this key population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Argento
- Gender and Sexual Health Initiative, British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Katherine A. Muldoon
- School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Putu Duff
- Gender and Sexual Health Initiative, British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Annick Simo
- Gender and Sexual Health Initiative, British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Kathleen N. Deering
- Gender and Sexual Health Initiative, British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Kate Shannon
- Gender and Sexual Health Initiative, British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- * E-mail:
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The Intersection between Sex Work and Reproductive Health in Northern Karnataka, India: Identifying Gaps and Opportunities in the Context of HIV Prevention. AIDS Res Treat 2012; 2012:842576. [PMID: 23346390 PMCID: PMC3546443 DOI: 10.1155/2012/842576] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2012] [Revised: 12/04/2012] [Accepted: 12/11/2012] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective. To examine the reproductive health practices of female sex workers (FSWs) in the context of an HIV prevention program in Karnataka, India. Methods. Data obtained from a survey of 1,011 FSWs registered with an HIV prevention program. We examined reproductive health indicators, and performed multivariate logistic regression among primiparous FSWs to assess sex work during pregnancy and antenatal HIV testing. Results. Among primiparous FSWs (N = 251), 92.0% continued sex work during pregnancy, and 55.4% received antenatal HIV testing. A longer duration in sex work (AOR 2.7, 95% CI: 1.0-7.5), rural residence (AOR 3.3, 95% CI: 1.2-8.9), and antenatal HIV testing (AOR 6.3, 95% CI: 2.0-20.1) were associated with continued sex work during pregnancy. Older FSWs (age >25 years, AOR 0.12, 95% CI: 0.05-0.33), who delivered at home (AOR 0.14, 95% CI: 0.09-0.34), were least likely to receive antenatal HIV testing. Antenatal HIV testing was associated with awareness of methods to prevent vertical HIV transmission (AOR 3.9, 95% CI: 1.9-14.1). Conclusions. Antenatal HIV testing remains low in the context of ongoing sex work during pregnancy. Existing HIV prevention programs are well positioned to immediately integrate reproductive health care with HIV interventions targeted to FSWs.
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