It was a late evening, and exhaustion had already set in after a long day. A sex worker, juggling the demands of parenting and a growing online presence, decided to check her messages before calling it a night. What awaited her was a stinging reminder of the stigma her profession carries. It was a hateful message from a stranger, not even a subscriber, suggesting she had an “easy life” and reducing her hard work to a single ignorant stereotype.

This moment highlights the challenges faced by sex workers in a society that has long stigmatized their profession. While sex work is often referred to as “the oldest profession,” the misconceptions surrounding it remain pervasive. To address these misconceptions, here are five things sex workers wish the world understood:

1. Sex Workers Don’t Walk Around Being Horny 24/7

Contrary to popular belief, sex workers are not perpetually in the mood. Like any other job, there are days when motivation wanes. While some moments on camera may be genuine, much of what viewers see is a performance designed to enhance the experience for their audience. It’s important to remember that no one, regardless of their profession, is constantly in a heightened state of arousal. For those who believe otherwise, it might be time to consult a healthcare professional.

2. Sex Work is Real Work

The idea that sex work is “easy money” couldn’t be further from the truth. Sex workers are not only performers but also entrepreneurs. They wear many hats, including those of graphic designers, photographers, social media managers, and content creators. Behind the scenes, they invest countless hours in planning, branding, and marketing—skills that are far from “brainless.”

3. We Do This for the Money

Sex work, like any other profession, is a means to make a living. Interacting with sex workers without the intention to compensate them for their time and energy is disrespectful. Unsolicited intimate photos are not welcome unless specifically requested and paid for. The message is clear: if you don’t want to pay, don’t expect engagement.

4. Facing Judgment, Scams, and Hate is a Daily Reality

Sex workers endure an immense amount of prejudice and mistreatment. From individuals who insult and demean them to financial institutions that refuse to work with them or charge exorbitant fees due to perceived “risks,” navigating this industry requires resilience. The stereotypes perpetuated by society often lead to unfair treatment and a lack of basic respect.

5. We Value Our Fans—Especially the Respectful Ones

Despite the challenges, the relationships sex workers build with their fans can be deeply rewarding. Supportive and respectful fans bring genuine joy and a sense of purpose. Knowing that their work brightens someone’s day makes the effort worthwhile. Kindness and loyalty from fans foster mutual respect and even attachment.

Changing Perceptions Through Platforms Like Fansnub

As sex workers continue to combat stigma, platforms like Fansnub provide a haven for creators to connect with their fans on their own terms. Fansnub allows creators to maintain control over their content while building meaningful relationships with subscribers who genuinely value their work. The platform’s user-friendly features and creator-first approach make it a game-changer in supporting sex workers’ entrepreneurial endeavors.

By understanding the realities of sex work and challenging misconceptions, society can take a step toward dismantling the stigma. Sex workers, like anyone else, deserve respect, dignity, and fair treatment in their chosen profession. It’s time to recognize the hard work and creativity they bring to the table and to support their efforts to thrive in a challenging industry.