Factors Associated with HIV Risk Sexual Behavior among Female Domestic Workers in Nairobi, Kenya

Abstract

Background: Female Domestic Workers (FDW) engage in HIV risky sexual behavior. This study sought to determine factors associated with high risk sexual behaviours among FDW in Nairobi.

Method: A cross section of FDW in Nairobi city were sampled and stratified along low, middle and upper social classes of the employer households. The 187 FDW who participated were selected through snowballing and convenience sampling.

Results: Majority (51%) of FDW interviewed were from the low social class households; 68.5% were aged between 18 to 30 years; 49.4% had primary school education and 47.8% were separated from their spouses. Most (96.3%) had heard of HIV and AIDs; and 51.9% were able to correctly dispel myths on HIV and identify methods of prevention. 16.9% of the FDWs scored more than half on an 0<18 point maximum score range of risk perception. There was a weak association of risk perception score and duration the respondent had worked (P=0.07). Two thirds of the respondents engaged in high risk sexual behaviour. High risk sexual behavior was associated with risk perception (β = 0.119), socio<economic class of employer and having a regular sex partner.

Conclusion: FDW in Nairobi engage in high risk sexual behaviour; HIV interventions for this population should seek to raise awareness dangers of high risk sexual behaviour in relation to STI infections and target as a priority, those who work in low income area and have steady sex partners.