Suicide during Pregnancy Among Female Sex Workers in Low- and Middle-Income Countries
Author Information
Author(s): Wendy L. Macias-Konstantopoulos, Brian Willis, Swarna Weerasinghe, Emily Perttu, Ian M. Bennett
Primary Institution: Center for Social Justice and Health Equity, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard School of Medicine
Hypothesis
This study aims to examine the extent to which suicide is a cause of maternal mortality among female sex workers (FSWs) in low- and middle-income countries.
Conclusion
The study found that a significant proportion of suicides among female sex workers occurred during pregnancy, highlighting the need for targeted interventions.
Supporting Evidence
- Approximately 14% of reported female sex worker deaths were due to suicide.
- Nearly two-thirds of all female sex worker suicides reported were maternal.
- The majority of maternal suicides occurred during the prenatal period.
Takeaway
This study shows that many mothers who are sex workers are at risk of suicide, especially during pregnancy, and we need to help them.
Methodology
The study used the Community Knowledge Approach to gather data on causes of death among female sex workers across eight countries.
Potential Biases
Potential social desirability bias may have affected the reporting of sensitive information.
Limitations
The study's convenience sampling may limit the generalizability of the findings to all female sex workers.
Participant Demographics
Participants were female sex workers aged 18 and older, primarily from low- and middle-income countries.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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