Male prostitution
Male prostitution is the exchange of sexual services for payment by men who sell sex. Clients may be men or people of other genders.
Street prostitution: Sex work solicited in public spaces, often near established meeting areas. Some men solicit clients on streets, though many work through other settings.
Sex work law: Laws and policies governing the sale and purchase of sexual services. Legal rules determine whether male sex workers can work openly and seek assistance.
Male prostitution in ancient Greece: The sale of sexual services by men in the social and legal contexts of ancient Greece. Ancient Greek evidence shows that male prostitution had varied roles and legal status.
Female prostitution: The exchange of sexual services for payment by women who sell sex. Comparing gendered markets helps identify differences in clients, visibility, and working conditions.
Sex work research: Social-science and public-health research on people who sell sexual services and the conditions of their work. Research on men remains limited compared with work focused on women and other populations.
Escort service: A service arranging paid companionship, which may include sexual services. Some male sex workers meet clients through escort agencies or independent listings.
Stigma of sex work: Social disapproval and discrimination directed at people who sell sexual services. Stigma can compound discrimination related to gender, sexuality, class, or race.
Male prostitution in ancient Rome: The sale of sexual services by men within Roman society and its systems of status and slavery. Roman sources document male sex work under conditions shaped by status and enslavement.
Transgender sex work: Sex work performed by transgender people, whose genders are not defined by sex assigned at birth. Gender identity is distinct from the category of men who sell sex.
Sex worker rights: Human and labor rights claims advanced by people who sell sexual services. Debates center on how to protect workers’ autonomy, safety, and access to justice.