Female juvenile prostitution: Subsidies to AIDS prevention programs

Goal: Our main goal was to investigate the Aids perception as well as to obtain subsidies for the development of Aids prevention programs targeting female juvenile prostitution. Methods: Thirteen females aged 18 to 21 years working as prostitutes in Ribeirdo Preto were interviewed. Results: Even though all participants demonstrated knowledge of safe sex and HIV transmission, this was in contrast with the belief that destiny is determinant for HIV infection and the search for affection in their relationships with partners and clients. Conclusions: The strategies of HIV and/Aids prevention must realize that an environment for discussion aiming at clarifying social imaginary beliefs and concepts about Aids is necessary. In addition, discussions about affective relationships seen as safe should take place as this can lead to unsafe sexual practices.