Vientiane: Difference between revisions

In the past few decades, Laos has undergone rapid development. While many of the country's health care resources remain limited, they are in a state of transition. You will find that certain birth control methods, such as pills or condoms, are easily purchased over-the-counter. Some more advanced methods, such as IUDs, may be obtained in certain hospitals or clinics. However, other methods, such as patches, implants or injectables, may be technically available but difficult to find. You can purchase emergency contraception (the morning after pill) without a prescription at pharmacies, yet overall public knowledge of ECPs is not very high overall. You can receive HIV testing at various clinics in larger cities, like Vientiane. While HIV rates in Laos currently remain low, as of 2017, they are increasing at a rapid rate, and one should always practice safe sex anywhere, including in Laos. There is also an HPV vaccination program in place. Regarding menstruation, you can find pads and tampons in city markets. However, it may be very difficult to find menstrual cups, so they should be ordered online or purchased outside of Laos. Finally, the current state of abortion policy (as of June 2017) is in a state of transition in Laos and rather complex. To understand both the practice and policy around abortion in Laos, please refer to the "Abortion" section below.