Browsing by Author "Phetlho, Mpabi Agnes"

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    Experiences of condom usage among female sex workers in Mangaung Metropolitan, South Africa.
    (University of Fort Hare, 2023-05) Phetlho, Mpabi Agnes; Murray, D.
    This study aimed to achieve two main objectives. Firstly, it aimed to investigate the experiences of female sex workers in actively using condoms to reduce HIV infection during their work. Secondly, it sought to identify the support systems available to increase female sex workers’ use of condoms particularly for those operating on the streets of Mangaung Metropolitan Municipality. The issue at hand does not only affect individuals engaged in the sex industry but also impacts their families and clients. Furthermore, it influences South Africa in its entirety. Both female sex workers and their clients face a heightened risk of contracting HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs). The rising cases of newly reported HIV infections may be attributed to the inadequate utilisation of condoms among female sex workers. As a result, it is essential that those who are involved in the sex work to collectively shoulder the responsibility of ensuring consistent and effective condom usage, thus preventing the widespread prevalence of HIV infections, despite the ample distribution of condoms. Methodology The study adopted research qualitative, descriptive, explorative, and contextual design to explore experiences of female sex workers’ condom usage during sex work. Semi-structured individual interviews with fourteen participants were conducted and these interviews were recorded and later transcribed verbatim. In addition, it implemented a non-probability sampling method, which relied on effective snowball sampling techniques. This research occurred in Mangaung district, within the province of Free State in South Africa; more specifically, it focused on Bloemfontein, the province’s capital, which is currently known as Mangaung. The study encompassed primary healthcare facilities and community health centres close to participants for their convenience. These settings were approved via the Free State Department of Health (FSDOH) authority . Based on the study’s aim and relevant research questions, data were collected and analysed to identify various themes and sub-themes using Tesch’s method. Furthermore, it adhered diligently to ethical principles to ensure its findings were trustworthy. Findings Female sex workers in Mangaung Metropolitan, South Africa, reported positive experiences related to condom usage when they negotiated condom use with their clients. In this regard, some reported adverse experiences with clients, including violence, verbal abuse, and physical abuse. As a result, several participants had become reluctant to use condoms and had subsequently contracted HIV infection and STIs. Participants also highlighted the challenges associated with health professionals, such as harassment at healthcare facilities and victimisation by law enforcement officers. Respondents also reported on the availability of support systems from NGOs, churches, and doctors. Some respondents reported that sex work was their only means of survival amid high unemployment. All participants made suggestions for support systems to address sex workers' needs. Conclusion Sex work has become the only employment option for most participants. Therefore, the government and other stakeholders must collaborate to create employment and to continuously bring awareness of condom use to curb the spreading of HIV and other Sexually transmitted infections.