[Prevalence of sexually transmitted diseases and the use of the condom among sex workers].

OBJECTIVE

To determine the prevalence of sexually transmitted diseases (STD) and the use of condoms by sex workers, assisted in a health module.

MATERIAL AND

METHODS

A cross sectional study, was performed with prostitutes in Coatzacoalcos, Veracruz through a self-administered questionnaire in a period from January 3 to February 9, 2001. The questionnaire evaluated gynecology-obstetric background, STD and the use of condoms. Clinical records and laboratory tests were evaluated for STD screening.

RESULTS

A total number of 196 sex workers from 71 work places were evaluated. The average age was 29.5 +/- 3.3 years. One hundred and eleven (57%) reported being single. 189 (96.4%) presented at least a case of vaginosis during the year 2000 and 148 (75.5%) were diagnosed having vulvovaginitis due to fungus. Syphilis was identified in 4 (2%) cases and (0.5%) acquired immune deficiency syndrome. 45 (23%) reported they always use a condom and 113 (58%) use condoms very often.

CONCLUSIONS

There is a high prevalence of vulva and vagina disorders, as well as syphilis. High rates of sex workers use condoms.