Sex workers, prostitutes, street workers, bar girls, bar boys, call girls, call boys, Go Go girls, brothels, massage parlours…

Selling sex and related activities is often the only way that women and men can sustain themselves and survive in poor countries despite the stigma and discrimination. Being poor and disempowered often means that sex workers do not have access to condoms and adequate medical care. In many countries their activities are illegal and they are threatened by law enforcement officials, often putting themselves in highly vulnerable positions. Unfortunately this also means that sex workers often carry HIV and other STIs, having to continue to work when infected in order to survive. Sex workers move from country to country, cities to rural areas and vice versa which means that risks are not limited to big cities in particular countries.

Australians are well known for using sex workers  while overseas. In fact some Australian men and women, particularly middle aged and married travelers, seek to use sex workers whilst overseas in order to enhance their erotic and cultural experience and sense of adventure. They like the anonymity and may see it as a bit of quick fun. But it can also mean travelers are at high risk of acquiring HIV and other STIs.

If you choose to have sex with a sex worker you are recommended to provide your own condoms and lube and use them properly. If you believe you have been at risk, you are strongly advised not to have sex or to use condoms and lube with other sexual partners until you have sought sexual health testing and treatment.