My recent excursions into the world of porn remind me of some time I put in doing light helping-out duties at a brothel when I was in college (it resulted from a sociology paper I was writing). I found the women working there fascinating in and of themselves. We all became friends.

But what about the performers in this field?

• Do they receive insurance benefits from the studios with whom they are under contract?

• Is HIV testing required? (And if not, why not?)

• Do any of the women performers/actresses enjoy the work? Reason I ask: In Liquid Gold 2 , a perfomer called "Kirbie" indulges in graphic self-stimulation. She eventually secretes what looks like the natural lubricating fluids that result from arousal. Did "Kirbie," perhaps, genuinely arouse herself?

• Are there any career prospects after a life in porn?

• Do any of the performers feel exploited in some way?

• Is it possible to enjoy this sort of work?

• What are the dangers in terms of business contacts? And, related, are underworld influences at play in the field?

• Does working in this field as a performer ruin any prospects at working in the mainstream film industry?

I understand some members of Adult DVD Talk are themselves in the industry. Any insights into this field's working conditions would be both fascinating and enlightening.

Thank you.

Topic Moved by - Saki on Jun 30 2002