Social and health survey of a group of prostitutes

A survey was carried out in a group of 98 prostitutes which included medical examinations and laboratory controls. Most of the group were white single ages 19-30 years and originating from the Pais Vasco or surrounding areas. While the largest percentage were from the urban areas a high number were from rural areas. Most of them owned large houses which had good sanitation. Family relations were good in general but the families in question were not aware of the prostitutes occupations. Characteristically many in these families suffered from cirrhosis alcohol problems and psychiatric disturbances as well as drug-related difficulties. While many of the study subjects once the economic factor is what led them to their present profession of prostitution. On the average they had sexual relations 3-5 times/day and their lifestyle was conducive to substantial geographic mobility. Most are not covered by social security and as a group they show a high index of hospitalization and a low index of medical visits. Oral contraceptives are the most commonly used method of contraception but many use no method at all. The most frequent pathology observed throughout the group is in the form of sexually transmitted diseases and allergic reactions to drugs. (authors modified) (summaries in ENG SPAFRE)