Repercussões do trabalho sexual na saúde mental das mulheres profissionais do sexo

Abstract

Initial Considerations: The practice of prostitution has been understood as a commercial exchange of one's own body in a consensual and agreed manner between sex workers and their clients, in which the act of offering sexual pleasure is unrelated to any type of affection or reciprocal physical attraction. These are part of a socially vulnerable group, given the diversity of spaces in which they circulate and work. These spaces predispose female sex workers to greater fragility in their mental health. However, the current care model is not adapted to the reality and specificities of this category, which contributes to the distancing of these workers from mental health services. Objective: to analyze the repercussions of sex work on the self-perception of mental health of female sex workers. Methods: this is an exploratory and descriptive study with a qualitative approach. The research was conducted in two adult entertainment establishments in the city of Parnaíba-PI, between July 2, 2023 and February 3, 2025. The thematic-categorical content analysis technique proposed by Laurence Bardin was carried out, with the aid of Atlas.ti® and IRaMuTeQ® software for data exploration and treatment. Results: the sample consisted of 10 sex workers, brown, young adults with low education. The interviews resulted in 19 registration units, which were grouped, into four categories and three subcategories. They are: Relationship between Sex Work and Mental Health (Perceptions of Mental Health; Main Symptoms Reported; Factors that Influence Mental Health); Impact of Violence. Final Considerations: sex work negatively affects the psychological well-being of participants, since social, economic and structural factors aggravate their vulnerability. The findings indicate common reports of deep sadness, anxiety, stress and depression, intensified by the emotional strain of the profession, experiences of violence and substance abuse. Limited access to mental health care reflects barriers such as stigma and lack of support in services. Future research should explore strategies to reduce prejudice and strengthen support networks, contributing to more inclusive public policies.