FAQ Kapitel III.

  1. Health counselling for prostitutes according to the ProstSchG

    1. What does the compulsory health counselling mean for me?

      2. Section 10 of the Act requires you to attend health counselling. You must have done so before starting work as a prostitute. In North-Rhine Westphalia, the local Gesundheitsämter (Public Health Offices) provide this counselling.

      During the counselling, you will be given information on topics that are important to your health, for instance how to protect against sexually-transmitted diseases (STD), contraception, pregnancy and the risks associated with drug abuse. You are also welcome to ask questions that are important to you.

      You will receive a certificate at the end of the counselling. (more FAQ III, 2) You need this certificate in order to register. (more FAQ II) It must not be older than three months.

      You will not be charged for health counselling in North-Rhine Westphalia.


    1. What information is contained in the health counselling certificate?

      • First and last name or ALIAS (more FAQ II, 5)

      • Date of birth

      • Issuing office

      • Date of counselling


    1. Do I need to carry my certificate of health counselling?

      2. Yes! You must carry your certificate of health counselling as well as your registration certificate when you are at work.


    1. Who is entitled to check my health counselling certificate?

      2. Only the establishment owners, the employees of the competent authority and the police are entitled to check your certificate.

      You are not required to show your certificate to customers or colleagues.


    1. How often am I required to repeat health counselling?

      2. If you are 21 or older, the health advice certificate is valid for one year.

      If you are younger than 21, the health advice certificate is only valid for six months.

      If you have questions on this, ask at your local health office.


    1. Does the health counselling also include a medical check-up?

      2. No. You only receive counselling – for instance about sexual health, contraception, pregnancy and the risks of drug abuse.

      In some cities, the health offices (Gesundheitsämter) also organise voluntary, anonymous medical check-ups. You can ask for this, if you are interested and if you want to know more.