HIV risk perceptions, knowledge and behaviours among female sex workers in two cities in Turkmenistan
Chariyeva, Z.; Colaco, R.; Maman, S.
Global Public Health 6(2): 181-192
2011
ISSN/ISBN: 1744-1692 PMID: 20486005 DOI: 10.1080/17441691003796395Document Number: 218538
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.