Health-Related Sexual Behavior among Transgenders in Singaraja, Bali

BACKGROUND: The existence of persons with trans-genders orienta-tion (waria) is undeniable. Usually trans-genders are at risk for sexual transmitted diseases and HIV/AIDS do to their sexual behavior. This study aimed to describe health related sexual behavior among persons with trans-gender orientation in Singaraja, Bali. SUBJECT AND METHODS: This was a qualitative study conducted in Singaraja, Bali. The data was obtained from the trans-genders by in-depth interview and observation. RESULTS: The trans-genders participated actively in social event and campaign related to HIV/AIDS prevention and control. However, they had high-risk sexual behavior, such as doing oral sex, anal sex, and squeeze sex. Only 80% used condoms during sexual intercourse. The trans-genders rarely checked up for reproductive health provided by the District Health Office in Singaraja, Bali. They were reluctant to be examined by female doctors. CONCLUCION: The trans-genders in Singaraja, Bali, still have high-risk sexual behavior. The rarely use reproduction health services provided by the government, among others because they are not comfortable to be examine by female doctors. Keywords: waria, trans-genders, sexual behavior, reproduction healt