“Those who want to know now and can act later”: An investigation into perceptions of HIV self-testing for South African sex workers

Abstract

The objective of the study is to discover how the South African community, which provides health care services for sex workers, perceives HIV self-testing. The role of stigma in impeding sex workers access to governmental health services is highlighted by this research. A qualitative approach was undertaken utilizing an adapted, community-based participatory research strategy. Interviews were conducted with peer educators, sex work activists, health care coordinators and researchers [n=17]. Opinions regarding HIV self-testing were very mixed. Prior knowledge of HIV was found to be very important in the ability manage the emotional stress of self-testing, and to seek follow up care. The research implies that self-testing ought to be promoted amongst individuals who have a high level of prior knowledge of HIV.