A 'segmented’ sex industry in New Zealand: sexual and personal safety of female sex workers

Objective: Assess differences in personal circumstances, risk exposure and risk-taking among female sex workers in different sectors of the New Zealand sex industry in regard to issues of sexual safety, drug use, violence and coercion. Method: A cross-sectional survey of 303 female sex workers was carried out in Christchurch, New Zealand, May-September 1999. Results: There was evidence of ‘segmentation’: street workers were younger, had started work at a younger age and had less education than indoor workers. More street than indoor workers used money from sex work for drugs and used drugs at work. There was a high level of condom use but little ‘negotiation’ about them with clients. High levels of violent experiences were reported, but street workers reported more, and more extreme forms of, violence than indoor workers. Implications: Although knowledge of condom use and sexual safety appears generally high and women in both sectors report taking the initiative for safer sex, drug use, violence and coercion remain of concern. While sexual safety will need ongoing health promotion and education interventions to support and ensure the uptake of safer sex practice by new workers and prevent any relapse by more experienced workers, issues of violence and coercion also require attention to the power relationships between individuals. Legislation and policy directed at these issues should encourage the control women can exert over their work practice. Reducing exposure to personal risk may require different measures in different sectors.