Sex Work

Some of us do sex work, either full-time or just part-time. Some of us also pay for sex work. It’s a myth that there’s no market for sex workers who are transmasculine, or non-binary.  For some of us, presenting as masculine while doing sex work, may be difficult because there are fewer resources for us to get support. Some of us may present as cis women when working, but this doesn’t make us any less trans. It can be harder to find support when you present as masculine, and some of us even present as cis women when working—but that does not make us any less trans.

Tips for Sex Workers

• Plan for safety. Do client background checks, make a safety plan, and stock up on safer-sex items (like condoms, lube and gloves).
  
• Know your rights. Find legal help from your local sex-worker group (for example, Maggie’s Toronto or Butterfly).
  
• Connect with peers. Join sex-worker organizations or networks (see the Resources page for a list) and lean on friends who do sex work.
  
• Say no when you need to. You always have the right to decline a client.
  
• Learn self-defense. A few basic moves can help you feel safer.
  
• Bring a friend along or have someone you trust call or text to check in on you.
  
• Try different options. You could also do webcamming, dancing, pro-domming, or massage work.
  
• Get vaccinated for mpox. Mpox can spread in some sexual networks. Learn more and book your vaccine appointment.
  

Stay safe, know your options, and take care of yourself out there!