The many faces of sex work.
OBJECTIVE
To compile a global typography of commercial sex work.


METHODS
A Medline search and review of 681 "prostitution" articles was conducted. In addition, the investigators pooled their 20 years of collected papers and monographs, and their observations in more than 15 countries. Arbitrary categories were developed to compile a workable typology of sex work.


RESULTS
At least 25 types of sex work were identified according to worksite, principal mode of soliciting clients, or sexual practices. These types of work are often grouped under the headings of "direct" and "indirect" prostitution, with the latter group less likely to be perceived or to perceive themselves as sex workers. In general, policing sex work can change its typology and location but its prevalence is rarely affected. The public health implications of sex work vary widely.


CONCLUSIONS
Developing comprehensive sexual health promotion programmes requires a complete understanding of the types of sex work in a particular area. This study provides a checklist for developing appropriate and targeted programmes.
Harcourt
C
C
Sydney Sexual Health Centre, Sydney Hospital, PO Box 1614, Sydney, NSW 2001, Australia. harcourtc@sesahs.nsw.gov.au
Donovan
B
B
D005260:Female; D006304:Health Status; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D011633:Public Facilities / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D012307:Risk Factors; D011477:Sex Work / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence / Q000523:psychology / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D047568:Unsafe Sex / Q000706:statistics & numerical data