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Exploring commercial sex work among transgender women in Nepal: Contributors and stigma—A mixed-method study

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  • Himani Shree Pokharel
  • Salau Din Myia
  • Anisha Chalise
  • Shishir Paudel

Abstract

Introduction: Transgender women are considered as one of the most vulnerable populations for commercial sex work and sexually transmitted infections. This mixed-method study aimed to explore the factors associated with commercial sex work among transgender women of Nepal along with their experience and the stigma associated with it. Methods: A concurrent mixed-methods approach was employed in this cross-sectional study conducted from July to December 2022 in the Kathmandu Valley of Nepal. A total of 152 transgender women participated in the quantitative survey, and 17 of them were selected for in-depth interviews (IDIs). The chi-square test was employed at a 5% level of significance to identify factors associated with commercial sex work. Qualitative data from the IDIs were thematically analyzed, with key themes emerging around reasons for engaging in sex work and the stigma associated with it including the Silence, Shame, and Dignity & Treatment domains under sex work stigma. Results: Out of 152 transgender women, 104 (64%; 95% CI: 60.5–75.0%) were found to be currently working as a commercial sex worker. Factors such as education, household wealth, homelessness, history of sexual and verbal abuse, including rape and physical attacks, and socialization with others were found to have a statistically significant relation with commercial sex work at p

Suggested Citation

  • Himani Shree Pokharel & Salau Din Myia & Anisha Chalise & Shishir Paudel, 2024. "Exploring commercial sex work among transgender women in Nepal: Contributors and stigma—A mixed-method study," PLOS ONE, Public Library of Science, vol. 19(12), pages 1-15, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:plo:pone00:0314619
    DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0314619
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Christopher S. Carpenter & Samuel T. Eppink & Gilbert Gonzales, 2020. "Transgender Status, Gender Identity, and Socioeconomic Outcomes in the United States," ILR Review, Cornell University, ILR School, vol. 73(3), pages 573-599, May.
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