Predictors of female condom use among women exchanging street sex in New York City.

ABSTRACT

PIP: This study investigated the characteristics of street sex workers that influence the initial use of the female condom in New York City. Interviews, demonstration of proper female condom use and distribution of 10 female condoms were conducted among 113 female sex workers. Only 96 respondents were included in the study after a 2-week follow-up evaluation. Measure variables used in the study included sociodemographic characteristics, drug history, sexual risk behavior, and victimization, while dependent variables were female condom use for any reason and female condom use with commercial sexual partners. Results revealed that the 3 strongest variables associated with female condom use were the following: 1) living with anyone with a drug-alcohol problem; 2) having heard of the female condom; and 3) physical or sexual abuse by a commercial partner. This study emphasized the need to develop innovative programs that focus on street workers, with information promotion carried out in areas of sex work strolls which addresses the issues of accessibility and ease of use among sex workers.