Understanding Sociocultural Factors Contributing to Hiv Risk among Bolivian Sex Workers. Autors

The indigenous Ayoreo population comprises an ethnic group which is very vulnerable to sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and HIV/AIDS. Being a woman, Ayoreo and a sex worker (SW) means belonging to a maximum risk group. Prevention programs for these illnesses are not showing good results among this population. The aim of this study is to explore, describe and understand behavioral and cultural patterns related to sexual and reproductive health among Ayoreo SWs in Bolivia. We designed a qualitative-ethnographic study and data was collected through patient observation and in-depth interviews with the SWs and key informants (KIs). Three fundamental themes emerged from our results: sexual freedom, maternity and control of one's body and the sustaining of risk behaviors. It can be concluded that examining the sexual-reproductive culture in the Ayoreo population in depth provides useful elements for the cultural adaptation and design of policies and prevention programs for STIs and HIV/AIDS.