PrEP can be used for any job in the sex industry including porn. Many sex workers look after their sexual health but find they cannot always rely on their clients to do so.

Sex workers can be under pressure from clients to have sex without a condom, so PrEP is a good safety net.  A sex worker does not need to tell their clients they take PrEP, doing so may make clients think they can demand or expect sex without a condom in future.

Sex workers can still refuse service for condomless sex and explain to clients PrEP does not prevent catching other STIs which could impact health and loss of earnings while unable to work. Some sex workers may tell clients as a way to reassure them they are taking extra protective measures.

Sex work can be heavily stigmatised, and is only partially decriminalised in the UK which may act as a barrier to talking with a GP. Seeing a specialised sex work services where they can be free from judgement is helpful. More details can be found at www.uglymugs.org.

There are no specific side effects from PrEP that would stop a sex worker working, so concern about it causing time off work shouldn’t be a reason that stops anyone exploring PrEP use.

Note: NHS vaccinations worth asking for: Hep B, HPV, Hep A, COVID-19.

PORN PERFORMERS

Just because a porn performer’s scene partner shows them a certificate saying HIV was not found does not mean they may not be living with transmittable levels of undiagnosed HIV. HIV tests have a window period meaning they may not find the most recent transmissions. The UK standard HIV testing is the 4th generation tests, for which HIV must have been contracted more than 45 days before taking this test for HIV to be identified. HIV can be caught and then passed on in days so PrEP is still useful regardless if a scene partner holds a HIV negative certificate. Other tests include the PCR testing but there is still a window period with this, so it useful to have other preventions like condoms, PrEP or a partner known to be living with HIV but whom is fully virally suppressed by taking regular treatment.

These jobs can accompany drug use in a social setting or as part of meeting clients, be aware recreational drug use for some people can make time management harder which can contribute to missing PrEP doses. E.g. Over sleeping during a recovery period. Anyone recreationally using drugs should consider using a support system for managing their drugs such the text reminder service by takemypillsuk.com.

Sex workers offering drug sessions should be aware of the vulnerabilities it can put them in, having less control while with a client. They should clearly separate work life from what they do for fun in a private life. If they are looking for support they should speak to caseworkers at NUM Sex Worker safety charity: 0161 629 9861 or mental health support for porn performers: https://pineapplesupport.com/.

For support and advice to reduce COVID-19 risks, porn performers can go to: UKAP.info/CV19TOOLKIT