Social Determinants of Sex Work among Female Sex Workers in Tehran

Aim: Female sex worker's capacity for sexually transmitted infections is a major concern in the developing countries, such as Iran. This study aimed to explore the social determinants of sex work among female sex workers.
Qualitative approach was applied, and the participants were recruited from two shelters and three harm reduction drop-in centers (DICs) in Tehran. Seventeen in-depth interviews and two focus group discussions were conducted with female sex workers. Inclusion criteria of the present study were Iranian women aged 15-45 years, being sexually active in the past 12 months, ability to comprehend Farsi, and being eager to participate in the study. Purposive sampling with maximum variation sampling was used for data gathering. Content analysis was applied for data analysis.
Findings: Three main themes emerged in the data analysis process: family, inefficient education, and social risks. The subthemes of family included lack of financial support, lack of emotional support, unbounded family, and inappropriate husband. The subthemes of inefficient education were defect of education in the family, lack of education in the community, and peer education. The subthemes of social risks included risky society and risky friends.
It is recommended that the role of family, friends, and peers to be highlighted to families. Also sexual health education must be provided for youth and high risk groups, such as sex workers.