The Beliefs and Practices on Sexual Health and Sexual Transmitted Infection Prevention of Myanmar Migrant Workers in Thailand

Abstract

Background: Thailand is recognized as one of the countries in Southeast Asia that has attracted a large number of migrant workers from her neighboring counterparts. The issue of sexual transmitted infections among transnational migrant workers has caused grave concerns for Thai government, particularly the authority responsible for healthcare policy and planning. Objective: This study aimed to explain the sexual beliefs and practices on sexual health and sexual transmitted infections prevention of Myanmar migrant workers in Thailand. Methods: The qualitative research method was applied in this research. The data collection covered observation, field note takings, in-depth interviews, and secondary data derived from literature reviews of various sources. The participants consisted of 22 Myanmar migrant workers who could communicate in Thai and live in Thailand for at least one year. The data was analyzed by using the method of content analysis. Results: The findings of this study included two major themes and four subthemes as follows: 1. The meanings of sexual transmitted infections 2. The sexual health and sexual transmitted infections prevention: 2.1) Males and Females: equality to STI’s prevention2.2) Sexual Risk Behaviors: No prostitute services, No sexual risks 2.3) Condom usage: unaffordable and the symbol of promiscuous and untrustworthy and 2.4) Abortion: unavoidable solutions to unwanted pregnancy. Conclusion: The findings provided an understanding of sexual beliefs and practices on sexual health and sexually transmitted infections prevention among Myanmar migrant workers that can be applied to the policy making as a foundation data including to inform and propose to the concerned society, healthcare organizations, healthcare providers and nurses, in particular.