A PREVENTION OF SEXUALLY TRANSMITTED INFECTIONS AMONG SEX WORKERS

Abstract

This article aimed to describe health interventions for sex workers focused on the prevention of sexually transmitted infections (STIs). It is a descriptive study—an integrative literature review—conducted in June 2026, with searches performed in the Virtual Health Library (Biblioteca Virtual em Saúde) and PubMed. A total of 3,391 articles were identified, 11 of which comprised the final sample. Among the identified interventions, 45.5% of the studies reported HIV testing and counseling; 36.4% mentioned health counseling, access to and use of HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), and health education; 27.3% indicated the provision and distribution of condoms; 18.2% addressed guidance on the use of alcohol and other drugs, as well as peer education; and 9.1% noted other types of interventions. The findings highlight the diversity of strategies aimed at STI prevention within this population, encompassing both educational initiatives and access to preventive resources. It is concluded that the identified interventions—particularly health education—can contribute to the prevention of STIs among sex workers by facilitating access to information and the adoption of self-care practices.