Female condom acceptability and related factors among female sex workers in three areas in China

Objective To explore the attitude of female sex workers (FSWs) towards female condom and related factors. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted in Dehong, Yunnan province, Leshan, Sichuan province and Shenyang, Liaoning province from September 2008 to January 2009. A total of 968 FSWs were sampled and face to face interviews with questionnaire were conducted among them. Main outcome variables were measured by female condom acceptability score including high-risk sexual behaviors, self-reported condom use, self-reported HIV/STI history and awareness of HIV/STI risk. Results Among the FSWs, 22 (2.3%) had ever used female condom, of which 17(77.3%)were willing to use it. Mean score of female condom acceptability in 941 FSWs who never used female condom was 2.52 (ranged from 1 to 4). Acceptability score varied by area where FSWs lived, grade and nature of prostitution place, their income, marital status, educational level, concerns about contracting HIV/STI and history of pregnancy. Conclusion There was difference between hypothetical acceptability and the acceptability after real use, further efforts should be needed to improve the acceptability of female condom.