HIV risk perceptions, knowledge and behaviours among female sex workers in two cities in Turkmenistan

Glob Public Health. 2011;6(2):181-92. doi: 10.1080/17441691003796395.

Abstract

This paper describes HIV risk behaviour patterns among street- and bar-based female sex workers in the Turkmenistan cities of Ashgabat and Mary. Street-based sex workers had little to no knowledge of HIV and primarily used condoms when condom use was initiated by clients. Bar-based sex workers had HIV knowledge and reported regularly using condoms mainly with first-time clients. While sex workers perceived themselves to be at low risk for acquiring HIV, they were aware of other sexually transmitted infections (STI) and expressed a strong desire for free STI testing and treatment services.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Condoms / statistics & numerical data
  • Female
  • HIV Infections / prevention & control
  • HIV Infections / transmission
  • Health Behavior*
  • Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice*
  • Humans
  • Risk-Taking*
  • Sex Work / psychology*
  • Sexually Transmitted Diseases / prevention & control
  • Sexually Transmitted Diseases / transmission
  • Turkmenistan