Self-reported use of health services, contact with police and views about sex work organisations among male sex workers in Cordoba, Argentina

Abstract

A total of 31 male sex workers recruited in Cordoba, Argentina, completed a questionnaire about the use and barriers to the use of health services, contact with the police and perception about the need of sex workers organizations. The results reveal that the majority preferred to use public services for general and sexual health concerns. The most frequently identified harriers to use of health services were waiting time before consultation and opening hours. The majority agreed for the need of a sex workers organization to advocate on their behalf, particularly achieving decriminalization of sex work and providing sexual health information to sex workers. Many reported contact with police that was generally positive, although some concerns were raised. The paper discusses implications for public health measures aimed at promoting greater sexual safety in the male sex industry.