Experiences and challenges of Prostitute Women in Iran: A phenomenological qualitative study

Abstract Background Prostitutes in Iran are faced with many challenges and problems that pose risks to their health. Objective The present study is an attempt to identify and narrate the challenges and experiences of Iranian prostitutes based on a qualitative approach. Methods This qualitative study was conducted with a phenomenological approach in (2018) in Tehran, Iran. The data were collected through semi-structured interviews with 22 prostitutes who were selected using a snowball sampling method and analyzed with Colaizzi's method. In order to examine the quality of findings, Guba and Lincoln's measures were used. Results Data analysis results were classified into five main categories and 14 subcategories. The main issues are: The experience of violence, Heath risk, social ostracism, objectifying, and lack of social and legal supporting structures. Conclusion Prostitutes in Iran experience numerous problems at personal and social levels. By providing social, economic, and legal supports for them such as social services (e.g. educations on how to use contraceptives, how to have safe sexual intercourse, and free counseling services for mental support), we can improve their health and welfare.