Abstract
In a public health perspective there has been a strong focus on HIV/AIDS and STDs when addressing the health of sex workers. However, a more holistic approach to the topic of sex work and health has been called for, both in terms of research, interventions and services. This project is a contribution to the somewhat neglected research issue of sex work and health in a Norwegian context. This study explores the health behaviour among female migrant sex workers in Oslo, Norway.
Through a qualitative study based on observations and interviews with female migrant sex workers and service providers, it has been examined how this group of sex workers define their health, meet their health needs and how this is interpreted in a Norwegian health care setting. The study emphasises the interlinkage between health beliefs, health behaviour and service utilization. It shows the importance of focusing on how the social and cultural context form and influence this group’s understanding of their own health and illness, and what is seen to be appropriate action in terms of prevention efforts or treatment seeking. Throughout this study it will be argued that focusing on individual health beliefs are not enough to explain this group’s health behaviour, as social relations, interactions and structures also affect how these women make decisions about their health and how they utilize health services.