Prostitution means that sex is offered in exchange for money or other benefits. People who sell sex are sometimes referred to as sex workers or prostitutes.
Women selling sex to men is most common, but also men and trans people can sell sex. People buying sex may be both men and women.
Both the person selling and buying sex should protect their own boundaries and respect the boundaries of other people.
Safe sex
Safe sex is important for all parties when it comes to paid sex. Through Safe sex you protect yourself and others from STIs and from an unwanted pregnancy:
- Always use a condom when it comes to penetration (vaginal or anal sexual intercourse).
- Also use a condom if you have oral sex (blow job).
- If you perform cunnilingus (licking the vulva or letting yourself be licked) you can cut a condom and place it on the vulva. You can also use a dental dam.
- If you have unprotected sex, talk to a health professional about getting yourself tested for STIs or HIV.
- Be careful with alcohol and drugs when you have sex. Otherwise, you may feel less inhibited and be less aware of the potential risks.
Tips for sex workers
If you are selling sex you should pay attention to the following points:
- Ask the customer to pay you in advance.
- Trust your intuition. Reject customers that seem strange to you.
- Protect your own boundaries. Explain clearly what you want to do and what you do not. Nobody can force you to do something against your will.
- Create a safe environment. Find regular places and tell somone where you are going.
- If possible: work together with someone and check on each other now and then. Agree on a distress signal.
You have the right to stop sexual contact at any time if you think something is wrong.
If you are selling sex, and you have questions, or you need help, you can contact health services or peer organisations.
Prostitution and the law
Selling sex is not illegal in Norway, but it is prohibited to buy sex. For Norwegian citizens and those living in Norway it is also illegal to buy sex in other countries.
Laws and regulations regarding prostitution vary among European countries. Forced prostitution and trafficking are prohibited by law throughout Europe.