PERCEPÇÕES DE TRABALHADORAS DO SEXO SOBRE CUIDADOS EM SAÚDE SEXUAL E REPRODUTIVA

Abstract

Initial Considerations: The sale of sexual services is characterized by paid sexual activity in which the priority is not affection or reciprocal desire, but the exchange of sexual pleasures for material goods. Female sex workers make up a socially, historically, and culturally stigmatized and discriminated segment. Although significant progress has been made in the field of women's health, there is still a substantial gap in the focus dedicated to the health of sex workers. Objective: to investigate the perceptions of female sex workers about their sexual and reproductive health. Methods: this is an exploratory and descriptive study, with a qualitative approach. The study was carried out in two adult entertainment venues in the city of Parnaíba-PI, from July 2, 2024, to February 3, 2025. The final sample consisted of 10 female sex workers. The thematic-categorical content analysis technique proposed by Bardin was used, with the aid of Atlas.ti® and IRaMuTeQ® software for data exploration and treatment. Results: The participants were mostly young adults, brown, with low levels of education. The data originated four categories, namely: Sex Work: Between Self-Esteem and Stigma; Sexual Health; Reproductive Health; Health Services and Access Barriers. Although society perceives prostitution as an easy activity, the women involved in it consider it a job that requires specific skills. This results from a complex socioeconomic context, permeated by issues of gender, inequality, stigma and the fight for rights. Therefore, when considering the health of workers, it is necessary to analyze the occupational risks to which they are exposed. Health professionals must readjust their approaches when serving this population. Final Considerations: Sex workers are exposed to multiple factors that impact their sexual practices, including difficulties in the regular use of contraceptives, limited access to gynecological examinations, and experiences of abortion without adequate support. Thus, the importance of implementing health policies that address the specific needs of these women is highlighted.