ArticleBMC women's health2026
Experiences and challenges of female sex workers during the COVID-19 pandemic in Iran: a narrative inquiry.
Article in BMC women's health, 2026. The graph could read no effect estimate from its abstract, so it casts no vote on the map. Not yet cited in PubMed.
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Abstract
backgroundThis study aimed to explore female sex workers’ experiences of the COVID-19 pandemic in Iran, with a particular focus on economic hardship, changes in client relationships, access to COVID-19–related and general health services, misinformation and prevention practices, and intersecting structural vulnerabilities.
methodsA qualitative Narrative Inquiry approach was used to explore the lived experiences of female sex workers referred to Drop-In Centers (DICs). Purposive sampling complemented by snowball recruitment identified 21 participants. Semi-structured interviews were conducted, and data were analyzed using Narrative Thematic Analysis consistent with Riessman’s methodological principles.
resultsPandemic-related economic shocks reduced income and bargaining power; misinformation fueled both denial and fear of COVID-19; disruptions in client relationships increased exposure to violence; and barriers to health care led many women to delay treatment or rely on self-medication. These challenges were compounded by criminalization, lack of identification documents, substance use, and caregiving responsibilities.
conclusionsThe COVID-19 pandemic amplified pre-existing vulnerabilities among female sex workers in Iran. Participants experienced severe income loss, reduced negotiating power with clients, increased exposure to violence, widespread misinformation, and major barriers to COVID-19–related and general health services, particularly among women lacking identification documents and those with caregiving responsibilities. Low-threshold, crisis-responsive interventions delivered through Drop-In Centers and outreach teams are needed to mitigate harms during future public health emergencies.
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