Health care access and migration experiences among Venezuelan female sex workers living in the Dominican Republic

Abstract

Objective. To identify sexual risk behaviors and barriers to sexual and reproductive health care (SRH) among Venezuelan female sex workers living in the Dominican Republic. Methods. This was a mixed-methods study using four focus group discussions (FGDs) and a cross-sectional quantitative survey with Venezuelan migrant female sex workers. The study was conducted from September through October 2021 in two urban areas (Santo Domingo and Puerto Plata) in the Dominican Republic. Information collected from the FGDs was analyzed using thematic content analysis, and quantitative data were analyzed using univariate descriptive statistics. Data analysis was conducted from 30 November 2021 to 20 February 2022. Results. In all, 40 Venezuelan migrant female sex workers with a median (range) age of 33 (19-49) years participated in the FGDs and survey. The FDGs identified barriers to SRH services, including immigration status and its implications for formal employment and health access, mental wellbeing, quality-of-life in the Dominican Republic, navigating sex work, perceptions of sex work, SRH knowledge, and limited social support. Findings of the quantitative analysis indicated that most participants reported feeling depressed (78%), lonely/isolated (75%), and having difficulty sleeping (88%). Participants reported an average of 10 sexual partners in the past 30 days; 55% had engaged in sexual practices while under the influence of alcohol; and only 39% had used a condom when performing oral sex in the past 30 days. Regarding AIDS/HIV, 79% had taken an HIV test in the past 6 months, and 74% knew where to seek HIV services. Conclusions. This mixed-methods study found that nationality and social exclusion have a multilayered influence on migrant female sex workers, sexual risk behaviors, and access to health care. Recommendations for effective evidence-based interventions to address sexual health knowledge need to be implemented to address risky sexual behaviors, improve access to SRH, and reduce affordability barriers.

Strengthening locally led research to respond to the sexual and reproductive health and rights of migrants from Venezuela and Central America

“…Restrepo Pineda et al found that condom use was not consistent among sex workers and even less likely among Venezuelan male sex workers whose precarious financial situation led them to riskier, yet more profitable, practices ( 30 ). Paulino Ramirez et al exposed feelings of depression and isolation among migrants from Venezuela turning to sex work to survive in the Dominican Republic ( 31 ).…”

Fortalecimiento de la investigación local para abordar la salud y los derechos sexuales y reproductivos de las personas migrantes de Venezuela y América Central

“…Restrepo Pineda et al observaron que el uso de preservativos no era sistemático en los trabajadores sexuales en general, y aún menos probable en los trabajadores sexuales masculinos venezolanos, cuya precaria situación financiera los llevaba a prácticas más riesgosas, pero más rentables ( 30 ). Paulino Ramírez et al expusieron sentimientos de depresión y aislamiento en las personas migrantes de Venezuela que recurren al trabajo sexual para sobrevivir en República Dominicana ( 31 ).…”