HIV in women in the sex industry and/or injection drug users

NAACOGS Clin Issu Perinat Womens Health Nurs. 1990;1(1):33-40.

Abstract

Women working in the sex industry are at risk for HIV infection acquired through intravenous drug use or sexual practices with steady sex partners, but there is no evidence that they are transmitting the virus to their customers. Most HIV infection in women in the United States is related to injection drug use (personal or that of a partner). Scapegoating and prejudice toward prostitutes and IVDUs is widespread. Services must be provided with attention to unique social and psychological concerns. Both educational and medical interventions must be sensitive and accessible, and, at times, must be provided outside traditional health care settings.

MeSH terms

  • Female
  • HIV Infections / epidemiology
  • HIV Infections / etiology*
  • HIV Infections / nursing
  • Health Services Needs and Demand
  • Humans
  • Prejudice
  • Risk Factors
  • Sex Work*
  • Stereotyping
  • Substance Abuse, Intravenous / complications*