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'''OVERVIEW'''
[[File:Patuxay, Vientiane, Laos.jpg|400px | thumb|right|]]


==Contraception==
'''OVERVIEW'''
 
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 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.
 
==Contraception (Birth Control)==
 
'''General Note:''' There are many types of contraceptives, also known as "birth control," including IUDs, oral contraceptives, patches, shots, and condoms, etc. If you would like to view a full list, click [https://www.plannedparenthood.org/learn/birth-control here].


===Laws & Social Stigmas===
===Laws & Social Stigmas===
In Laos, you can purchase oral contraceptives (birth control pills) over-the-counter. No prescription is required.<ref>[http://ocsotc.org/wp-content/uploads/worldmap/worldmap.html Global Oral Contraceptive Availability World Map]</ref> <ref>[http://freethepill.org/where-on-earth/ Free the Pill: Where on Earth]</ref> According to 2015 report, it was found that 53.6% of Laotian women (who are married/in unions and of reproductive age) use any form of contraception. The most common methods were birth control pills (23.2%), injectables (14.9%), female sterilization (5%) and the rhythm method (4.8%). There were very low rates of usage of IUDs (1.8%), condoms (1.25) and implants (0.1%).<ref>[http://www.un.org/en/development/desa/population/publications/pdf/family/trendsContraceptiveUse2015Report.pdf Trends in Contraceptive Use 2015]</ref>
Historically, Laos has experienced periods of both rejecting and embracing family planning. In 1969, the International Planned Parenthood Foundation teamed up with the United States Agency for International Development to develop family planning programs. It was under these efforts that the child‐care and maternity wing of Mohosot Hospital, based in Vientiane, was developed. The hospital performed some vasectomies and tubal litigation procedures.<ref>[http://www.nytimes.com/1976/09/09/archives/laos-bans-birth-control-to-build-population-after-a-decade-of-war.html Laos Bans Birth Control to Build Population After a Decade of War]</ref>
However, in 1976, the Laotian government officially banned birth control. There may have been a few reasons for this ban. First, after the decades long Laotian Civil War (1953-1975), the government wanted to build up its population with a new generation of Laotians. Furthermore, the family planning policies of the past were associated with American involvement in Laos, which the government wished to distance itself from. During this period, birth control pills disappeared from the shelves and any remaining supplies were treating as contraband.<ref>[http://www.nytimes.com/1976/09/09/archives/laos-bans-birth-control-to-build-population-after-a-decade-of-war.html Laos Bans Birth Control to Build Population After a Decade of War]</ref>
By the late 1980s, birth control was accessible again<ref>[http://countrystudies.us/laos/48.htm Laos - Population]</ref>, and since the 1990s, the Ministry of Health has advocated for birth control and family planning. The Ministry has typically advised women to space out births every two to three years.<ref>[https://insearchofvientianeluangprabang.wordpress.com/2016/07/07/women-in-laos-conversations-and-insights-part-ii/ WOMEN IN LAOS: CONVERSATIONS AND INSIGHTS (PART II)]</ref> Since 2012, the the rate of married women using contraception has increased by 0.9% per annum.<ref>[http://ec2-54-210-230-186.compute-1.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/Country_Action_Opportunities-Challenges-and-Priorities_LAO_PDR_FINAL.pdf FAMILY PLANNING 2020: COUNTRY ACTION: OPPORTUNITIES, CHALLENGES, AND PRIORITIES - LAO PDR]</ref> In 2017, Laos held its first First National Conference on Family Planning, organized by the Ministry of Health and United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA).<ref>[https://www.newsdeeply.com/womenandgirls/articles/2017/05/19/laos-puts-family-planning-on-its-economic-roadmap Laos Puts Family Planning on Its Economic Roadmap]</ref>
Yet these changes have primarily affected the lives of Laotian urban women, who have adopted family planning methods in larger numbers. For rural women, however, contraceptive use remained low into the 1990s, and in areas that were far from provincial capitals or the Thai border, contraceptive usage was "virtually nonexistent," according to one source.<ref>[http://countrystudies.us/laos/48.htm Laos - Population]</ref> As women in rural areas come from a wide range of tribal and ethnic backgrounds, and they speak many different languages, it has been crucial that the women receive locally-tailored resources. Most recently, the Laotian government has begun to make inroads in rural communities due to the work of Community-based distribution (CBD) workers, who are educating their local communities and distributing free contraceptives. The CBD workers have received training from the Laotian government and UNFPA. One of the main issues is that the majority of the CBD workers are male (not female). To read more about CBD workers in Laos, click [https://www.theguardian.com/global-development/2015/jan/13/condoms-contraceptive-pills-laos-birth-control-family-planning here].
Today, over half of Laotian women use some form of birth control. Some unmarried women report feeling shamed by judgmental health care providers,<ref>[http://reliefweb.int/report/lao-peoples-democratic-republic/analysis-reproductive-healthcare-lags-laos Analysis: Reproductive healthcare lags in Laos]</ref> yet others report that they can easily purchase contraceptives at their local pharmacy.


===What to Get & Where to Get It===
===What to Get & Where to Get It===
* In Vientiane, you can find '''condoms''' in many stores and minimarts. You can also buy condoms online from local sellers, like [https://www.facebook.com/VTE5555/ Yes Condom Vientiane], which sells 3-piece packs of Durex condoms for 10,000 kip, 6-piece packs of SixSex condoms for 35,000 kip and 24-piece packs of SixSex condoms for 100,000 kip (as of June 2017). If you send them a message on Facebook, they'll give you more details. Note that online sellers of condoms tend to be more expensive than physical stores.
* You can purchase '''oral contraceptives (birth control pills)''' at pharmacies. No prescription is required. Some of the brands you can expect to see are Anna and Preme, which are both produced by Thai Nakorn Patana (a Thai pharmaceutical company).<ref>[http://contraceptive.ippf.org/search?search.searchtext=&search.component=&search.countrycode=LA IPPF Laos]</ref> Some locals have warned against purchasing medications from China or Vietnam, since they may be lower-quality or unreliable.<ref>[https://www.travelfish.org/beginners_detail/laos/21 Awkward healthcare questions in Laos]</ref>
** One local health care professional says (June 2017): "OC pills are widely available in most pharmacies and from public and private hospitals, even in rural areas. The brands will vary and providers may not stock consistent problems [sic: brands]. This can be an issue because it means that women may not always be able to find the brand that they are used to, especially in areas where the outlet may be bringing the drugs in from Thailand, Vietnam, China, etc.  A lot of providers just drive over the border to buy their stocks."<ref>[Online Conversation with Health Care Professional]</ref>
** Important Note: There is a problem with fake, expired or ineffective pills being sold in Laos. Buy medications from reputed pharmacies, look for recognized brands and make sure that the labeling and packing looks correct.
* If you want an '''IUD''', you'll be able to find copper-T IUDs in Laos. You can get them at public hospitals in Vientiane, such as Ban Home Health Center, Chanthabouly District hospital, etc. You can also get an IUD at private hospitals/clinics, such as Alliance, LaoViet and the French Clinic. For a full list of hospitals, visit the "Gynecological Exams" section.
* According to locals, you should be able to find '''contraceptive implants''' in Laos, but we need more details.<ref>[Online Conversation with Health Care Professional]</ref>
* According to locals, you should be able to find '''contraceptive injectables''' in Laos, but we need more details.<ref>[Online Conversation with Vientiane Local]</ref>
* According to locals, you may be able to find the '''contraceptive patch''' in Laos. However, while locals report hearing that it's available, there's no confirmation if anyone can directly report seeing the patch available themselves.<ref>[Online Conversation with Vientiane Local]</ref> We'll need more information.
* The '''contraceptive ring (such as Nuvaring)''' is currently not available in Laos, as of June 2017.<ref>[Online Conversation with Vientiane Local]</ref>
'''IMPORTANT NOTES from Vientiane Health Care Professional (June 2017):'''
* "The only products registered for use in Laos and widely available are copper-T IUDs, Implants, COC and progestin only pills, Injections, EC pills and condoms. If a provider has anything else, they most likely brought it in illegally from a neighboring country."
* "All contraceptive commodities should be free at public facilities, but they will charge a small fee for the use of consumables (like cotton, betadyne, etc.). This is usually less then 50,00 kip ($6), but it varies by province. Private sector fees will depend on the provider, usually less than $10 I would say."


===Costs===
===Costs===


==Emergency Contraception==
* Birth control pills should cost around 5000-10000 kip per month (as of June 2017).<ref>[Conversation with health care professional in Vientiane]</ref>
* Contraceptive injections will range from free to 5000 kip every 3 months (as of June 2017).<ref>[Conversation with health care professional in Vientiane]</ref>
* Contraceptive implants will cost around 25,000-5000 kip (as of June 2017).<ref>[Conversation with health care professional in Vientiane]</ref>
* IUDs will cost around 25,000-5000 kip (as of June 2017).<ref>[Conversation with health care professional in Vientiane]</ref>
 
==Emergency Contraception (Morning After Pill)==
 
'''Important Notes:''' Emergency contraception may prevent pregnancy for three days (72 hours) and sometimes five days (120 hours) after unprotected sex. Take EC '''as soon as possible''' after unprotected sex. If you don't have access to dedicated EC, oral contraceptives can be used as replacement EC, but remember the following: 1) Only some contraceptives work as EC 2) Different contraceptives require different dosages and time schedules to work as EC 3) You must only use the first 21 pills in 28-day packs and 4) They may be less effective than dedicated EC. For general information on emergency contraceptives, click [https://www.plannedparenthood.org/learn/morning-after-pill-emergency-contraception here] and [http://ec.princeton.edu/info/ecp.html here].


===Laws & Social Stigmas===
===Laws & Social Stigmas===
In Laos, you can purchase emergency contraception (the morning after pill) without a prescription at pharmacies.<ref>[http://www.cecinfo.org/country-by-country-information/status-availability-database/countries/laos/ EC Status and Availability: Laos]</ref> While there are no emergency contraception pills (ECPs) that are officially registered in Laos, pills are imported from other countries and sold on pharmacy shelves. This seems to be tacitly approved by the government. The Ministry of Health has approved of pharmacies providing emergency contraception, even if no products are officially registered.<ref>[https://bmcwomenshealth.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/1472-6874-13-14
Awareness and attitudes towards emergency contraceptive pills among young people in the entertainment places, Vientiane City, Lao PDR]</ref>
Overall, public understanding of ECPs remains low. According to a 2013 study of 500 young adults in Vientiane City, only 22.4% of respondents had heard of ECPs and only 17.9% knew the proper timeframe for effective usage. Despite these low numbers, the respondents did express generally favorable views of ECPs. In fact, 85% believed that ECPs should be available in Laos and 66.8% said that they would use ECPs, if they ever needed them. Regarding the respondents who said they would not use ECPs, their major concerns were around perceived negative health effects.<ref>[https://bmcwomenshealth.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/1472-6874-13-14
Awareness and attitudes towards emergency contraceptive pills among young people in the entertainment places, Vientiane City, Lao PDR]</ref>
According to a health care professional in Laos, there is some stigma around purchasing ECPs: "EC pills are actually pretty widely available from pharmacies and providers. There is not a lot of additional stigma then with the use of regular contraceptives. Generally, stigmas are against unmarried people accessing contraceptives, but this is changing fast in Laos. In some ways, I think providers can have less stigma around EC pills for young people because they are more understanding of an emergency situation (as opposed to a young, unmarried woman having regular sex). This is just my opinion though." (June 2017)


===What to Get & Where to Get It===
===What to Get & Where to Get It===


In Laos, the day after pill is called Madonna.
* In Laos, you can purchase the emergency contraception (the morning after pill) without a prescription.<ref>[http://www.cecinfo.org/country-by-country-information/status-availability-database/countries/laos/ EC Status and Availability: Laos]</ref> You may find the Madonna ECP, which is produced by Biolab Co., ltd., a Thai pharmaceutical company. The pill is typically found in Thailand, Laos and Sri Lanka.<ref>[http://www.cecinfo.org/country-by-country-information/status-availability-database/pills/madonna/ EC Status and Availability: Madonna]</ref>
* If you can't access dedicated emergency contraception, you can use regular birth control pill as replacement ECP. In Laos, you can do this with at least two brands of pills. If you have FMP, take 2 pills within 120 hours after unprotected sex and take 2 more pills 12 hours later (to prevent unwanted pregnancy). If you have Anna, take 4 pills within 120 hours after unprotected sex and take 4 more pills 12 hours later (to prevent unwanted pregnancy).<ref>[http://ec.princeton.edu/ Princeton EC Website]</ref>
 
===Costs===
 
Emergency contraception pills (ECPs) should cost no more than 30,000 kip (June 2017).<ref>[Conversation with health care professional in Vientiane]</ref>
 
==Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs/STDs)==
 
'''Important Notes - Learn about PEP and PrEP:''' If you think that you've been recently exposed to HIV (i.e. within 72 hours), seek out PEP (Post-Exposure Prophylaxis). It's a month-long treatment to prevent HIV infection after exposure, and it may be available in your city. Take PEP as soon as possible. For more information, click [https://www.aids.gov/hiv-aids-basics/prevention/reduce-your-risk/post-exposure-prophylaxis/ here]. If you are at risk of HIV exposure, seek out PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis). It's a daily oral pill that can prevent HIV infection before exposure. To learn more about PrEP, click [http://www.whatisprep.org/ here].
 
===Laws & Social Stigmas===
 
There are no travel or residency restrictions related to HIV status.<ref>[http://www.hivtravel.org/Default.aspx?PageId=143&CountryId=103 LAOS - REGULATIONS ON ENTRY, STAY AND RESIDENCE FOR PLHIV]</ref> This means that, if you're a foreigner entering Laos (whether as a tourist, student, worker or prospective resident), you won't be asked for a medical certificate certifying your HIV status. Furthermore, if you test positive for HIV in Laos, you shouldn't be deported from the country. However, if you're pregnant and receive prenatal care, or if you're a foreigner who wants to marry a Lao national, you'll probably need to take an HIV test.<ref>[Online conversations with Vientiane locals]</ref> It's typically mandatory in these cases.
 
There are an estimated 11,000 people with HIV living in Laos.<ref>[http://www.aidsdatahub.org/Country-Profiles/Lao-PDR Lao PDR - Key Facts on HIV]</ref> While this number is lower than neighboring countries, such as [[Thailand]] or [[Cambodia]], HIV rates are on the rise with about 1000 new cases being reported each year, leading to the claim that there's currently a "Lao epidemic." The highest risk groups tend to be sex workers, transgender people, injection drug users, and MSM (men who have sex with men).<ref>[https://www.unicef.org/laos/activities_22357.html Laos - HIV/AIDS]</ref> <ref>[http://www.wpro.who.int/laos/topics/hiv/en/ Lao People's Democratic Republic - HIV]</ref> As the Laotian borders have opened up in the recent years, the country is seeing higher rates of transmission among foreigners, migrant workers and injection-drug users along the borders as well.<ref>[http://www.irinnews.org/report/94374/laos-looming-threat-catching-hiv-prevalence
Looming threat of "catching up" on HIV prevalence]</ref> These groups have been difficult to reach because they have been historically disenfranchised from mainstream Laotian society, and many feel intimidated by or wary of medical services. However, it should be noted that heterosexual intercourse has also been recorded as a primary form of transmission.<ref>[http://www.irinnews.org/report/99771/more-work-hiv-laos-needed More work on HIV in Laos needed]</ref>
 
When some people test positive for HIV, they may not seek out medical services, which puts future sexual partners (or people with whom they have intimate contact) at risk.<ref>[http://www.wpro.who.int/laos/topics/hiv/en/ Lao People's Democratic Republic - HIV]</ref> This can be partially attributed to lack of education surrounding HIV and STIs as well. According to a 2013 UN report, only 23% of women and 30% of men had a comprehensive understanding of HIV.<ref>[http://www.irinnews.org/report/99771/more-work-hiv-laos-needed More work on HIV in Laos needed]</ref>
 
In response to rising HIV rates, the Laotian government has taken some important steps. From 2006-13, the number of ARV treatment centers rose from merely two to eight centers, and five support offices were created. However, the Laotian government most likely needs to more heavily invest in HIV/AIDS treatment and prevention. Currently, the country is heavily reliant on foreign aid and humanitarian agencies, such as the Global Fund. This is concerning to many people in Laos, since this does not create a sustainable long-term model.<ref>[http://www.irinnews.org/report/99771/more-work-hiv-laos-needed More work on HIV in Laos needed]</ref>
 
===Testing Facilities===
 
*  VYC clinic (clinic of the Vientiane Youth Center for Health and Development): They provide STI/HIV testing and counseling by experienced local doctors, and with medicines it only costs between 40,000-50,000 kip. It is linked to a hotline, radio programme and outreach to young people in some factories in Vientiane Capital and Province, and young people living in dormitories and studying at the National University. The clinic is their core service for nearly 10 years now, and VYC is a project linked to the Vientiane Capital Lao Women's Union but the clinic doesn't operate like a government facility at all. Phone: +856 21 252 886.
* French Medical Center (also known as the "French Clinic"): This is one of the better places to get an STI test in Laos. They send the samples to labs in Thailand to be tested, and overall, the clinic's STI testing is considered to be on par with Western standards. However, the services will be more expensive and may take more time. Address: Bvd. Kouvieng Rue Simeuang, Vientiane, Laos. Phone: +856 21 214 150.
* Mahosot Hospital: This hospital can give you a quicker and faster HIV test (and some other tests) than some other health care providers in Vientiane. While the hospital is not recommended by some expats for more complicated procedures, it's fine for basic tests. Furthermore, it was the first hospital in the country that was developed to focus on infectious diseases. Address: Quai Fa Ngum, Vientiane, Laos. Phone: +856 20 55 717 418.
* [https://www.facebook.com/laomedcare/ LMC Clinic Vientiane]: You can get tested for HIV (quick test, 60,000 kip), gonorrhea, chlamydia (40,000 kip each, swab test only), syphilis and possibly other sti's (all prices January 2018).
* For pregnant women, the Mother & Child Hospital provides HIV tests, which may be mandatory.
 
===Support===
 
* As of June 2017, Sethathirat Hospital has a special section at the back with a new building for patients with HIV, AIDS and TB under Dr Saykham.
* Skin Diseases Clinic (Khou Vieng) - One of the most populars clinics treating venereal disease in Vientiane.
* World Health Organization Representative Office Lao People's Democratic Republic: 125 Saphanthong Road, Unit 5 Ban Saphangthongtai, Sisattanak District Vientiane Capital, Lao People's Democratic Republic. Telephone: (856) 21 353-902 / 3 / 4 . Facsimile: (856) 21 353-905. E-mail: who.lao@wpro.who.int
* [https://www.theglobalfund.org/en/hivaids/ The Global Fund]: This organization provides a lot of the funding for HIV/AIDS work in Laos.
* [http://www.psi.org/country/laos/#about Population Services - Laos]: PSI has taken an active role in HIV/AIDS prevention and condom distribution in Laos. "PSI/Laos has been working since 1999 in the Lao People’s Democratic Republic (PDR) to: Reduce the spread of HIV/AIDS, sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and malaria. Find new cases of tuberculosis (TB). Prevent unintended pregnancies. Reduce undernutrition. Improve overall reproductive health and sanitation among Lao people."


===Costs===
===Costs===


==Medication & Vaccines==
==Medications & Vaccines==


===Laws & Social Stigmas===
===Laws & Social Stigmas===


===What to Get & Where to Get It===
===What to Get & Where to Get It===
* If you have a '''yeast infection''', you can try to ask for Canesten or Fluconazole, and the pharmacist may be able to determine what you need based on those requests. Canesten is a common yeast infection medication found in Southeast Asian countries, such as Vietnam. Meanwhile, Fluconazole is an active ingredient/foundational base of many yeast infection medications around the world.
* "If a woman had a '''UTI''', she might visit a public or private provider, or she may go directly to the pharmacist. Many pharmacists are public providers who have a pharmacy practice on the side; they are often a first stop for people who are sick (especially in rural areas where they may be much closer than a health facility)." - Local Health Care Professional
* There is an '''HPV vaccination''' program (Gardasil) in Laos, launched in 2013 and lead by the Global Alliance for Vaccines and Immunization.<ref>[https://www.voanews.com/a/hpv-vaccine-campaign-in-laos-aims-to-curb-cervical-cancer-rates/1761242.html Laos HPV Vaccine Campaign Aims to Curb Cervical Cancer]</ref>
* There is no provider of '''Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP)''' in Laos (as of June 2017),<ref>[http://www.prepwatch.org/ PrEPWatch World Map]</ref> <ref>[Conversation with health care professional in Laos]</ref> but it can be found in [[Thailand]].
* You can find '''Post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP)''' in Laos at hospitals that provide ARV therapy.<ref>[Conversation with health care professional in Laos]</ref>


===Costs===
===Costs===


==Menstruation==
==Menstruation==
'''Note:''' In addition to pads and tampons, you can also use menstrual cups and menstrual underwear for your period. To learn more about menstrual cups, click [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Menstrual_cup here]. To learn more about menstrual underwear, click [http://menstrualcupreviews.net/best-period-panties-reviews/ here].


===Laws & Social Stigmas===
===Laws & Social Stigmas===


===What to Get & Where to Get It===
===What to Get & Where to Get It===
* By far, the most menstrual popular option for Laotian women are '''pads/pantyliners''' (especially in urban areas) and '''cloth menstrual products''' (especially among rural or village women). In cities, they can certainly be found in many markets.
* You can find '''tampons''' in certain markets in larger cities, such as Vientiane and Luang Prabang. Some markets that may carry tampons are M-Point marts, Home Ideal, Simeuang Market (opposite the wat) and Pimphone market.<ref>[https://www.travelfish.org/beginners_detail/laos/21 Awkward healthcare questions in Laos]</ref> According to a health care professional, based in Laos, "Tampons are sold in most modern grocery stores in the city. Most Lao women do prefer pads or cloth."
* Regarding '''reusable menstrual products, organic menstrual products or menstrual cups''', there seems to be very little available resources, other than traditional cloth methods used by village women. There are no known sellers of major menstrual cup brands (such as DivaCup, MoonCup, RubyCup, Lunette, etc) in Laos. However, menstrual cups can be purchased online and sent to Laos, or they can be purchased in other countries in the regions, such as [[Thailand]], [[Vietnam]] or [[Singapore]], and brought back to Laos. According to one health care professional, based in Laos, "There are a few projects for reusable menstrual pads and hygiene. I’ve never seen the cup for sale myself, and most of my colleagues in the city don’t know about this."
'''Organizations working on menstrual issues in Laos:'''
* [https://www.facebook.com/Laosgirlsteenproject/ Laos Teen Girl Project]: "The Lao Girls Teen Project was started by the French NGO, Eau Laos Solidarité (ELS). In partnership with the Luang Prabang Library Community Outreach programme, we teach hygiene awareness in schools through fun workshops with trained Laotian hygiene educators."
* [https://www.daysforgirls.org/single-post/2016/08/26/Days-for-Girls-Goes-to-Laos Days for Girls - Laos]: Learn about when Days for Girls, an organization that focuses on women's hygiene, went to Laos.
* [http://www.generationeducationperiod.com/ Generation Education Period]: "GEP supports women and girls in Laos & Cambodia by providing them with sanitary kits. Many girls & women, who are living in poverty, find life difficult when they have their period. They miss work & school and are often isolated. By providing them with eco friendly, washable GEP Kits, girls can attend school, women can work and they can enjoy their life feeling safe and protected. The kits will last up to 3 years, which will give them more money for education and for their family."
* [https://chuffed.org/project/generationeducationperiod Period - Lotus Educational Fund Ltd]: "With the support of NGO's Green Umbrella, Khmer women are being trained to sew sustainable hygienic sanitary kits to be distributed to women and girls in Cambodia and Laos. This project aims to reduce absenteeism for secondary school girls while providing dignity to the lives of women and girls in socially impoverished villages."
* [lup.lub.lu.se/student-papers/record/4442938/file/4442943.pdf Period of Shame]: This report provides information on the effects of menstrual hygiene management on rural women and girls' quality of life in Savannakhet, Laos.


===Costs===
===Costs===
Line 47: Line 149:
===What to Get & Where to Get It===
===What to Get & Where to Get It===


===Costs===
====Public Hospitals & Clinics====
 
These are public hospitals in Laos that have received training from international health care professionals:
 
* Ban Home Health Center
* Chanthabouly district hospital
* Hatsaifong district hospital
* Khoksivilay Health Center
* Maknao Health Center
* Nasaithong district hospital
* Pak Ngeum district hospital
* Paktone Health Center
* Sangthong district hospital
* Xaythany district hospital
* Sikodtabong district hospital
* Sisattanak district hospital
* Xaysettha district hospital
* Mahosot hospital
* Setthathirath hospital
* Mittapharb hospital
* Mother and Child hospital


==STD Tests==
====Private Hospitals & Clinics====


===Laws & Social Stigmas===
* Centre medical de L’Ambassade de France (CMAF) (also known as French Medical Center, or the French Clinic): This is considered perhaps the best hospitals in Laos with more "Western" standards and well-trained physicians. It's supported by the French Embassy, and it's recommended by the US Embassy in Laos.<ref>[https://la.usembassy.gov/u-s-citizen-services/local-resources-of-u-s-citizens/doctors/ US Embassy in Laos - Medical Assistance]</ref> For locals who can afford it, the French Clinic is often considered the best local option. Keep in mind that it will be more expensive than some other options. It's located across from Green Park Hotel. Address: Bvd. Kouvieng Rue Simeuang, Vientiane, Laos. Phone: +856 21 214 150.
* Australian Embassy Health Centre: This is also recommended by the US Embassy in Laos (for those who can afford it), and it also has well-trained physicians. It will be more expensive than public options as well. <ref>[https://la.usembassy.gov/u-s-citizen-services/local-resources-of-u-s-citizens/doctors/ US Embassy in Laos - Medical Assistance]</ref> Located at Australian Embassy which is located at Kilometer 4 on Thadeua Road, tel. 21-353-840.
* [http://www.aimclao.com/ Alliance International Medical Centre]: This is a private hospital, opened in 2011 by Wattana Hospital group from Thailand. They primarily have Thai physicians but seem to also have some Western physicians on staff. Their women's clinic includes the following services: Gynecology consultations, Pre-marital clinic, Pre-natal clinic, Postpartum care, Fetal assessment, Menopause clinic, Reproductive medicine and fertility services, Early Gynecology cancer detection and treatment, Family planning, Inter Uterine Device (IUD) and Breast care. Address: Rte Luang Prabang, Vientiane, Laos. Phone: +856 21 513 095.
* Swedish Embassy Clinic: Address: Sok Paluang , Vientiane , Laos.Tel: +856 31 5015
* [https://www.facebook.com/pages/Lao-viet-Hospital/201332176564112 LaoViet Hospital]: We don't have much information on this but it may be another private hospital to check out.
* [https://www.facebook.com/laomedcare/ LMC Clinic Vientiane]: This clinic was recommended by one Vientiane local. He says, "Lao run, good equipment, quite modern. On the T2 road left side just before the pharmacies. Before tool shops on the right." Prices (June 2017): Digital gynecology exam is 160,000 kip. The pelvic ultrasound is 70,000 kip. The bacteria culture and sensitivity test for vaginal discharge is 120,000.


===What to Get & Where to Get It===
'''NOTE:''' For serious health issues, it's recommended to seek help outside of Laos (if you can afford it). Typically, people go to [[Thailand]] for critical medical issues. The Friendship Bridge links Vientiane (Laos) to Nong Khai (Thailand), and it's open 10 am-6 pm daily. If you have a medical emergency, you can often cross the bridge after hours as well. Some hospitals that foreigners seek out in Thailand are AEK International Hospital (tel:  66-42-342-555), North Eastern Wattana General Hospital (tel:  66-1-833-4262), and Bangkok Hospital  (tel: 66-42-343-111) in Udon Thani. They all have English-speaking staff. Furthermore, ambulances from AEK International Hospital and Nong Khai Wattana Hospital have permission to cross the Friendship Bridge. The Vientiane-based Setthatirat Hospital ambulance (tel: 021-413-720) can also cross the bridge into Thailand.<ref>[https://la.usembassy.gov/u-s-citizen-services/local-resources-of-u-s-citizens/doctors/ US Embassy in Laos - Medical Assistance]</ref>


===Costs===
===Costs===
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===Laws & Social Stigmas===
===Laws & Social Stigmas===
A woman is entitled to at least 105 calendar days of fully paid maternity leave, at least 45 days of which must be after the birth.
During the year after birth, the woman is entitled to have one hour a day of rest in order to feed and take care of the child.
If a woman suffers a miscarriage, she is entitled to leave on full pay for a period as determined by a doctor. On the birth of a baby, a woman is entitled to an allowance as specified in the Social Security Law.<ref>[http://jclao.com/the-basic-rules-of-employment-in-laos/ The Basic Rules Of Employment In Laos: Updates to the Lao Labour Law]</ref>


===What to Get & Where to Get It===
===What to Get & Where to Get It===
See gynecological exam section for information on recommended ob/gyns or women's clinics.


===Costs===
===Costs===


==Abortion==
==Abortion==
'''Important Note:''' There are two main types of abortions: medical (also known as the "abortion pill") and surgical (also known as "in-clinic"). For medical abortions, you take a pill to induce abortion. For surgical abortions, a procedure is performed to induce abortion. For general information about medical and surgical abortions, click [https://www.plannedparenthood.org/learn/abortion here].


===Laws & Social Stigmas===
===Laws & Social Stigmas===


===What to Get & Where to Get It===
===What to Get & Where to Get It===
The state of abortion law in Laos is in transition. Here's how a health care professional, based in Laos, explains the current situation (as of June 2017): "There is actually a lot of misinformation about abortion in Laos floating around. A lot of reputable websites do report that it is illegal except to save a woman’s life, but this isn’t true. Abortion is not illegal at all, but until 2016 it was restricted." She continues, "It is really difficult to figure out what to say in this transition period because what happens in practice is very different than what happens by law: In Laos, abortion is generally available, however, the area around what is legal vs what is available in practice is grey. Safe abortion services are available at provincial and district hospitals, where OBGY providers are generally trained in MVA and Medical Abortion with Misoprostol. Though historically abortion has been illegal or highly restricted except in incidences where a mother's life is in danger or the fetus is impaired, in fairly common practice a woman could also seek abortion services for socioeconomic reasons with a written certificate from their village chief, which confirms that the woman is too poor or has too many children to afford any more children. Misoprostol, a drug that is effective on it's own for abortions, is legally registered and available in Laos under the brand name Ace Miso. Many (but certainly not all) pharmacies routinely stock this drug and some will provide it even without a prescription.  Mifepristone, a drug that greatly increases the effectiveness of Misoprostol when taken together, is available through some pharmacies and providers, though it is not yet legally registered or regulated in Laos. 
Laotian abortion law is also in a state of transition. In 2016, the government went through a process of liberalizing the guidelines for safe abortion services and these changes will become publicly disseminated later in 2017. The penal code still needs to be revised, as it currently does not comply with these new guidelines."


===Costs===
===Costs===
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===What to Get & Where to Get It===
===What to Get & Where to Get It===
* Police: Call 1191
* Tourist Police: Call 1192
* Ambulance: Call 1195
* [https://www.facebook.com/vwycfans/ The Vientiane Women’s and Youth Center for Health and Development (Vientiane Youth Center or VYC)] - They have a Toll Free Hotline (1361 for females, 137 for males), focusing on youth (10 to 24 years-old). When you call the hotline, they can offer advice and clinical referrals, 9am-7pm, from Tuesday to Saturday. However, be aware that chats are typically limited to 5-10 minutes and you will often be referred to someone or an organization who can provide more specific services during that call.
* [https://www.devex.com/organizations/lao-pdr-women-s-union-lwu-52706 Lao PDR Women's Union (LW)]: "In January 2006, the first women's shelter in Lao PDR was officially opened in Vientiane. The name of this shelter is the Lao Women’s Union Counseling and Protection Center for Women and Children. The shelter was made possible through the dedicated work of the Lao Women’s Union, the Lao Government who donated a plot of land for this shelter, UNICEF, the Asia Foundation, and the Japanese Embassy. The shelter can house up to 50 women and girls who are the victims of domestic abuse, sexual abuse, and trafficking, or are abandoned or homeless. The shelter also has a vocational center that trains the women and girls living in the shelter on new job skills, such as handicrafts, sewing, and basic business management."
* [http://sengsavang.org/en/home/ Sengsavang]: This organization focuses on victims of human trafficking and sexual exploitation, and they have rehabilitation centre. "SENGSAVANG’s rehabilitation centre provides a safe home where the girls receive holistic care during their rehabilitation process and are given hope for a better future. Besides offering accommodation, food, clothing and other basic necessities, we foster the girls’ overall well-being by providing health care, psychological care, and legal support."
'''Comments from health care professional based in Vientiane:'''
* "There aren’t a lot of resources for women in need in Laos, but in general they can contact the Lao Women’s Union for many issues. They run a shelter for domestic violence survivors in Vientiane. There is also Sengsavang shelter and another shelter run by Village Focus International.  There is the Vientiane Youth Center, which is a good resources, and a hotline for SRH questions..." - Health care professional based in Vientiane (June 2016)


===Costs===
===Costs===


==List of Additional Resources==
==List of Additional Resources==
* [http://www.equaldex.com/region/laos Equaldex Profile on Laos] - Learn about LGBT rights in Laos
* [http://gdalaos.org/ Gender Development Association]: "The Gender and Development Association (GDA) formerly the Gender and Development Group  (GDG) and the Women in Development (WID) network, was formed in 1991. A collaboration of the Lao Women’s Union (LWU), UNICEF, with International Non-Governmental Organizations (INGOs), the WID network focused on women and gender development issues in Lao PDR." "GDA wants to contribute to a society where women are empowered and can live in society without violence and discrimination. Therefore, GDA wants to achieve that women can work along with men to reduce poverty and benefit from opportunities for development."
* [https://www.devex.com/organizations/lao-pdr-women-s-union-lwu-52706 Lao Women's Union]: "The Lao Women’s Union (LWU) was originally established in 1955 to mobilize women for the Lao People’s Revolutionary Party. Over forty years later, it has a membership of some 600,000 women nation-wide. In 1991 the LWU was recognized under the Constitution of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic (Lao PDR) as having responsibility for: responding to women’s development needs; promoting the status and role of women; and promoting unity amongst women of different ethnic groups and social strata throughout the country."
* [http://laodisabledwomen.com/ Lao Disabled Women's Development Center]: "The Center is a non-profit organisation, approved by the Lao Ministry of Social Welfare and Labour, which is staffed by disabled women for disabled women. The Centre is located near the Lao-Thai Friendship Bridge and is open 7 days a week." "Our vision is to be a successful organization of people with disabilities in Lao P.D.R. and empower people to engage their abilities by accessing education and employment."
* [http://www.psi.org/country/laos/#about Population PSI - Laos]: "PSI/Laos has been working since 1999 in the Lao People’s Democratic Republic (PDR) to: Reduce the spread of HIV/AIDS, sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and malaria. Find new cases of tuberculosis (TB). Prevent unintended pregnancies. Reduce undernutrition. Improve overall reproductive health and sanitation among Lao people."
* [https://www.oxfam.org/en/countries/laos Oxfam International - Laos]: "Oxfam's objective is to support the development of Laos as an open and just society, where vulnerable women and men are able to participate in its growth and enjoy their rights to sustainable development."
==References==
<references />
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