Sexual and reproductive health of women living on illegal gold mining sites in French Guiana: a multicentric cross-sectional survey

Background Women involved in illegal gold mining in French Guiana face intersecting vulnerabilities related to migration, informality, and precarious living and working conditions, which heighten their exposure to sexual and gender-based violence and undermine sexual and reproductive health. However, quantitative data on these issues in this population remain scarce. This study aimed to document the sexual and reproductive health of these marginalized women. Methods A cross-sectional descriptive survey was conducted among women involved in illegal gold mining. Participants were recruited at logistical bases at the borders with Suriname and Brazil. After providing informed consent, participants were interviewed by trained field investigators using a standardized questionnaire. It collected information on sociodemographic characteristics, exposure to sexual and gender-based violence, engagement in transactional sex, obstetrical history, access to gynecological care, and testing for sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Data were analyzed using descriptive statistical methods. Results Among the 115 women included, 14.0% reported sexual assault or rape (95% CI: 8.2–21.8), and 19.1% reported intimate partner violence. Regarding transactional sex, 9.5% of women were currently engaged in sex work, and 8.7% reported past involvement, among whom 80.9% reported systematic condom use. Overall, 15.6% of women reported a history of induced abortion (95% CI: 9.5–23.6), and half were performed by a healthcare provider. Most participants (80.0%) reported up-to-date gynecological follow-up (95% CI: 71.5–86.8). Previous HIV testing was relatively common (65.2%), whereas testing for hepatitis B (33.9%), hepatitis C (28.7%), and syphilis (35.6%) were less frequent. Conclusions Women working in mining areas faced high levels of sexual and intimate partner violence, while transactional sex appeared less aligned with commonly held stereotypes. Despite relatively good access to gynecological care, abortion rates remained high and STIs screening coverage could be improved. Promoting systematic screening for gender-based violence within sexual and reproductive health services is essential. Clinical Trial Registration: NCT05540470.