SEXUALLY TRANSMITTED DISEASES
In your profession, it is important that you protect yourself against sexually transmitted diseases. Condoms provide simple and reliable protection. But if you become infected, it is important that you detect this quickly – the earlier the better. Most of these diseases are easy to treat.
If you have become infected with a disease, you will among other things notice this from:
- pain on urination
- a foul smelling and yellowish-green discharge from your vagina
- blisters, a rash or itching in the region of the vagina/anus or mouth.
Even if you do not notice any of these signs, it is important that you see a doctor regularly and talk openly to him/her! Tell him/her what your profession is. If you do this, the doctor will be able to perform all of the important tests.
If you think that you have become infected, see a doctor or go to the Gesundheitsamt (‘Department of Public Health’) immediately. Don’t be embarrassed. The doctors and the Gesundheitsamt are there to help you and are not there to judge you. At the Gesundheitsamt, you will be able to receive medical help even if you do not have any health insurance. You will not have to give your name and the examination will be free of charge.
You can also make use of this offer if you do not legally work as a prostitute. The Department of Public Health (Gesundheitsamt) may also not report you to the Police (Polizei) or the Public Order Office (Ordnungsamt). It may also not prohibit you from continuing to work.
HIV
You will not need to be afraid of becoming infected with HIV if you always use a condom when you have vaginal (watch a video), oral (watch a video) or anal sex or sex with a sex toy! Even if customers do not want to use a condom, always insist on it! In this way, you will provide yourself and the client with the best possible protection.
Video – Safer Sex
Yeasts
Thrush (watch a video) is a frequent occurrence. You will be able to recognise it from itching and redness in the vagina and on the labia as well as a white, crumbly discharge. A yeast infection is easy to treat. You can obtain help from the Gesundheitsamt and you can obtain anti-thrush medication and advice from the pharmacy.
Hepatitis A/B
Hepatitis is inflammation of the liver. It can be transmitted during unprotected sex. Vaccination offers the best protection. The Gesundheitsamt will provide you with advice and give you the vaccination.