Abstract
We conducted a qualitative study of male sex work in St. Petersburg Russia with a focus
on social vulnerabilities, HIV-risk perception and HIV-related behaviours. In-depth
interviews were conducted with individuals knowledgeable about male sex work
through their profession and with male sex workers themselves. Male sex work involves
a variety of exchanges, including expensive vacations, negotiated monetary amounts or
simply access to food. Methods of finding clients included the Internet, social venues
(e.g. gay clubs and bars) and public places (e.g. parks). Use of the Internet greatly
facilitated male sex work in a variety of ways. It was used by both individuals and
agencies to find clients, and appeared to be increasing. Men often reported not being
professionally connected to other male sex workers and limited disclosure about their
work. Many were aware of the work-related risks to personal safety, including violence
and robbery by clients. Perceived risk for HIV was mostly abstract and several
exceptio
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 480-493 |
Journal | Culture, Health and Sexuality |
Volume | 15 |
Issue number | 4 |
State | Published - 2013 |
Externally published | Yes |
Keywords
- male sex work
- Russia
- HIV
- men who have sex with men
- MSM