Prostitution / sex work
Prostitution means offering sex in exchange for money or other advantages. People working in prostitution are called sex workers or prostitutes.
Sex workers are often women offering their services to men. Men and transgender people can also be sex workers and their client can be men or women.
Talking to each other before sex
Before having sex, the sex worker and the client should discuss the kind of sex they want to have and for what price. For example: oral sex and/or masturbation and/or vaginal sex with penetration, and/or anal sex.
All kinds of sex can be discussed with the sex worker, but they do not have to accept everything. They will tell you what is possible and what is not and for what price. Both the sex worker and the client should protect their own boundaries and respect the other person’s boundaries.
Sex worker and a client talking at the entrance of a brothel
Safe sex and hygiene
Safe sex is important for both the sex worker and the client. By having safe sex, you protect yourself and others against STIs and unintended pregnancy:
- Use a condom when penetration takes place (vaginal and/or anal sexual intercourse). You can use a water-based or silicone-based lubricant. Take note: an oil-based lubricant can cause the condom to tear.
- You can use a condom when having oral sex (blow job). During cunnilingus, cut open the condom and place it over the vulva or use a dental dam.
- If you have sex without a condom, talk with a health professional to get tested for STIs and HIV.
- Be careful when using alcohol and drugs during sex. You feel fewer restraints and are less aware of possible risks.
Use a condom when having sexual intercourse.
Take good care of your personal hygiene. For example: shower, use clean underwear, clean your teeth. etc. In that way, you care for your own body and you show respect for the sex worker.
Tips for sex workers
As a sex worker it is also important to:
- ask to be paid in advance;
- trust your intuition; turn away dubious clients;
- protect your own boundaries. Be clear with the client about what you want and do not want to do. Nobody can force you to do something against your will.
- Create a safe environment. For example: work in a hotel, inform friends, write down names and telephone numbers.
You have the right to stop the sexual contact at any moment if you think something is not OK.
If you are a sex worker and you have questions or you need help, you can contact the specialised organisations below.
Prostitution and the law
Prostitution is legal in some European countries like the Netherlands, Belgium and Germany under certain conditions. In other European countries it is illegal.
Forced prostitution and human trafficking are forbidden by law everywhere in Europe.