YOU DONT ASK FOR TROUBLE - WOMEN WHO DO SEX AND DRUGS

This study explored the experiences and context of women who reported multiple sexual partners and the use of illicit drugs, particularly cr ack cocaine. Women who engage in sex with multiple partners for money to purchase drugs are at high risk for human immunodeficiency virus (H IV) infection. An important focus of the study was how women understoo d HIV disease and the circumstances and meaning associated with condom use. Ethnographic interviews were used to collect and analyze data fr om 23 women in a city jail. The manner in which drugs were obtained as well as the nature of sexual relationships varied considerably among the women. Maintaining sexual relationships with men and obtaining dru gs were higher priorities for most women than protection against HIV d isease. Oppressive gender dynamics influenced how women organized thei r behavior and interpreted their experiences.