The Use of Contraceptives in Commercial Sex Workers in Yogyakarta

Abstract

— The economic crisis can increase the number of commercial sex workers (CSWs). The low infection prevention behavior and the low use of contraceptives while doing their work causes sex workers are potentially infected and transmitted by sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) including HIV-AIDS (Human Immunodeficiency Virus-Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome). The study was conducted on 30 CSWs at Pasar Kembang area in Yogyakarta City in 2019. The use of contraceptive pills was 23.33%, injection was 16.66%, pill combined with condom was 26.66%, and injection combined with condom was 33.33%. The respondents prefer contraception that is reversible such as injections, pills, and do not use long-term contraceptive methods such as implant or IUD. The results showed that condom which is used alone is not enough, because condoms have a high failure rate in delaying pregnancy. Thus, most of the CSWs also used injection contraception and pills as double protection in delaying pregnancy.