Stigmatizing and inaccessible: The perspectives of female sex workers on barriers to reproductive healthcare utilization – A scoping review

Abstract

Aim

To systematically map the extent, range and nature of qualitative studies that explored female sex workers' own perspectives on barriers to accessing reproductive healthcare services.

Design

A scoping review of the literature utilizing Arksey and O'Malley's method.

Data Sources/Review Methods

A search of the electronic databases MEDLINE/ PubMed, PsycNET, Sociological Abstracts, ProQuest, ScienceDirect, HeinOnline, Scopus, Web of Science and Google Scholar was conducted for items published in English between 2001 and 2021.

Results

Twenty-one studies were included in the review, the majority of which were conducted in lower-middle-income countries. RHC themes studied were diverse, with a few more studies focusing on STI/HIV, contraceptive use and pregnancy than those focusing on childbirth and postnatal care. The findings indicate barriers in four main domains: socio-legal barriers, health services-related barriers, interpersonal barriers and personal history-related barriers. Stigma was a major multifaceted barrier.

Conclusion

Female sex workers experience exclusion in utilizing reproductive healthcare services globally. As such, healthcare services are advised to adopt a nonjudgemental approach, to enhance physical accessibility and to train nurses and other healthcare professionals on reproductive health needs of female sex workers. Finally, knowledge production processes on the RHC of FSW should adopt a holistic view of FSW, by exploring their needs and barriers related to childbirth and maternity care and by including the perspectives of FSW in high-income countries.

Impact

The review offered an in-depth understanding of female sex workers' own perspectives regarding needs and barriers in utilizing reproductive healthcare services. Findings indicated socio-legal barriers, health services-related barriers, interpersonal barriers and personal history-related barriers. The review could inform the training of nurses and other healthcare professionals in reproductive healthcare services globally. Researchers should adopt a holistic view of female sex workers, by exploring their family planning needs, including barriers related to childbirth, maternity and postpartum care.

Reporting Method

We adhered to the EQUATOR guidelines PRISMA Extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR): Checklist and Explanation.