The anal sex among heterosexual couples is on the rise as reported in many scientific studies. Considering that unprotected anal sex has higher risk of human immunodeficiency virus HIV transmission than the vaginal sex, we undertook a study to understand the anal sex practices among Female Sex Workers FSW. A structured questionnaire was administered to the FSW attending these clinics by project clinic counselors. Informed consent was obtained from all the study participants.
Factors associated with anal sex were higher number of clients, higher duration of sex work, higher income, and older age group. There is a need to focus on anal sex education and use of lubricants along with condoms during anal sex in FSW-targeted interventions in AP.
Unprotected anal sex is associated with the highest risk of transmission of sexually transmitted infections STIs and the human immunodeficiency virus HIV. This risk is further increased if the receptive partner is female. Considering the global evidence of heterosexual anal sex,[ 8 β 23 ] it is likely that female sex workers FSW may also be engaging in similar practices, implying that HIV prevention programmes must explore and address the issue further.
However, there is a paucity of data on anal sex prevalence among FSW, especially in India. Not only the few studies available from India reveal wide-ranging figures,[ 24 β 28 ] they also do not examine the frequency of sex or other associated factors, making it difficult to draw definite conclusions about anal sex practices within the country.
The present study was undertaken to determine the prevalence and associated factors of anal sex practices among FSW in Andhra Pradesh AP. A prospective study was designed to better understand the associated factors of anal sex practices among FSW in AP.
