ABSTRACT
The objective of this paper is to discuss perceived barriers and incentives for female sex workers for HIV testing in services provided by the Unified Health System (SUS). Qualitative research was conducted through semistructured interviews in the city of Fortaleza from 2012 to 2014. Of the women who tested in primary care (30%), the majority (64%) were tested during prenatal care. Concerning testing, 17% had never tested, 69% had tested at least once in their lifetime and 14% tested regularly. Identified as barriers were the lack of on-demand testing, prejudice, and lack of confidentiality.
KEYWORDS
HIV; Health vulnerability; Prostitution; Health services accessibility; Qualitative research