INCIDENCE AND REACTION OF COMMERCIAL FEMALE SEX WORKERS TOWARDS UNINTENDED PREGNANCY IN NIGERIA

Abstract

Research and programmes for female sex workers (FSW) tend to focus exclusively on HIV prevention, with little attention paid to how pregnancy affects their lives. Limited knowledge and misunderstandings, particularty in relation to contraceptive uptake exists. Family planning services are often neglected as part of FSW-specific provision, which largely focus on preventing HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Stigma of health workers towards sex workers can also limit access to contraceptive use. FSWs have the same reproductive rights as all women, and their desires and needs in relation to pregnancy have often been neglected, similar to other marginalized populations, which have historically been subjected to reproductive coercion. It is important that those who do desire pregnancy are provided with non-judgmental care and that those who do not are given the opportunity and resources to prevent it. Moreover, many FSWs who become pregnant may be reluctant to access maternal health services, given their previous experiences of discrimination and abuse from health workers. This study basically embarked on the exploration of the incidence of unintended pregnancy among female sex workers in Nigeria. The study focused on the circumstances surrounding unintended pregnancy among women selling sex in Nigeria. The study revealed that poverty, sexual, and inconsistent condom use were causes of unintended pregnancy. Abortion was common typically with a medication regimen at a facility. Comprehensive sexual and reproductive health services should be provided to women who sell sex, in recognition and support of their need for family planning and their desire whether and when to have children.