A Systematic Review on Health and Well-being of Refugee Women Involved in Sex Work: Implications for Collaborative Care Delivery

Global conflicts have led to a surge in displaced populations, with many refugee women arriving in new countries alone or with children, facing substantial barriers to integration and safety. These challenges sometimes drive women to engage in sex work, either by choice or through coercion, to survive. While research has examined some physical health risks like STIs and violence, limited focus has been given to the mental health and overall well-being of refugee women involved in sex work. This review aims to bridge this gap, exploring the question: “How does engaging in sex work for survival affect the mental health and well-being of refugee women from conflict regions?”Methods/methodology: A systematic literature review was conducted using databases such as PsycInfo, CINAHL, Scopus, and Web of Science, plus grey literature, covering publications from 2013 to early 2024. The JBI Critical Appraisal Checklist was used to assess study quality. Out of 429 articles, 11 were included in the final synthesis.Results: Five key themes were identified as critical well-being factors for refugee women in sex work: fear, mental/psychological health, social well-being, economic stability, and spiritual struggles. These interconnected themes showed how refugee status heightened vulnerability to sex work, especially in trafficking cases. Combined challenges from both refugee and sex work statuses intensified risks to overall health and stability.Conclusions, implications, and curiosities: Findings underscore the importance of interprofessional collaboration in creating policies, community programs, and clinical practices that address the unique risks facing refugee women in sex work. By involving clinical and community healthcare providers, mental health professionals, and community organizations, interventions can more effectively address the social, economic, and mental health dimensions of well-being. Such collaborative efforts could reduce pressures leading to sex work and provide more comprehensive support for those currently involved.