Agreed. Also know a number of ex-sex workers.

Some have truly horrific stories, like being gang-raped at age 12, and forced into a lifetime of prostitution.

Others, actually chose the work, and did well.

Then, there’s trafficking, which is often a nightmare situation.

Not all the victims (or volunteers) are women, either.

I think that the fact the profession is often illegal, makes things considerably worse, all around. It pretty much guarantees that bad guys/gals will be running things, and there will be no oversight.

Also have known a number of sex workers. Some were just part time dominatrixes, some full time anything goes girls. Most enjoyed the work. I think all were voluntary? Few last in it long-term. The ones that do often legitimize into doing fetish content videos and VIP escort services as they get older or they keep a small set of good clients.

All of them also acknowledged it is a dangerous trade with plenty of horror stories.