Power relationships and HIV prevention among female sex workers in Tijuana: Preliminary results from a pilot study

Purpose: This purpose of this project is to assess the role of power relations in the lives of female sex workers and to evaluate the role of empowering organizations in stimulating social change, and more specifically in promoting sexual practices and other life-style modifications that lead to HIV prevention among female sex workers in Tijuana.

Methods: This is a qualitative study to examine the role of power in the lives of female sex workers and its impact on HIV prevention behaviors. Data collection methods for the pilot study include two focus groups with female sex workers and key informant interviews with leaders in the sex worker community.

Results: Results from initial pilot work indicate that the distribution of power in the multiple relationships that female sex workers are involved with affect their ability to make safer sex choices. Power is experienced in many aspects of daily life and the experience of power disparities differs by type of relationship such as family relationships, regular clients, new clients, and personal intimate relationships.

Discussion: Results from this pilot study will be used to guide a larger scale qualitative study. The study will focus on differences in levels of empowerment between women who participant in voluntary organizations of sex workers and those who do not. The ultimate goal of this project is to provide the female sex workers with the data collected and conclusions drawn to work with them to promote sustainable prevention efforts that focus on their needs, and actively address their vulnerabilities.