Sex workers (SWs) are considered a vulnerable group at increased risk for STIs/HIV/AIDS in Brazil. Our study's goal was to better understand the role of the female condom among SWs. Study objectives were to assess the initial acceptance of the device by SWs when offered at a social marketing price, to examine how female condoms are used and negotiated, and to assess SW's willingness-to-pay for the product.Three main interventions were implemented: female condoms were made available in the study sites at a lower price, a limited promotional activity, and educational activities with small groups of SWs. The evaluation was done through interviews with more than 200 SWs before and after the intervention. There was a significant increase in the number of ever users of the female condom, from 17% in the baseline to 51% in the final survey. The main reasons mentioned for initial trial were curiosity, prevention of STIs/HIV/AIDS and partner/client's refusal to use male condoms. At the final survey, those claiming to be current users of the female condom amounted to 51.4%. Most women who had bought the product were willing to pay $US1.34 per condom and 40% if the price would be $US1.70. The proportion of ever users was significantly higher after the intervention.Intensive educational efforts for SWs in small groups seem to be influential in triggering its use. Discomfort with use, male refusal to use, and its price seems to be the most important limiting factors for wider acceptance.
Learning Objectives: After this presentation, participants will be able to describe the role of the female condom as a method of protection against STIs/HIV/AIDS and pregnancy when offered to sex workers in the context of social marketing in a developing country (Brazil). Participants should be able to list and discuss at least three indicators of acceptability of the female condom. They should be able to identify different interventions to promote and improve access to the female and male condoms and to discuss its limitations. This information should help participants to plan interventions or studies with sex workers related to prevention of STIs/HIV/AIDS and pregnancy in their work contexts.
Keywords: Condom Use, Sex Workers
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: The Population Council
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.