Istanbul: Difference between revisions

As the largest city in Turkey, Istanbul has a wealth of health care resources available. But it can also be complex, often confusing, environment for women's health care. While birth control pills are available in many pharmacies ("eczanes" in Turkish) in the city center, and abortion is legal, it can be difficult to find reliable and responsive treatment. This is due to the conflicting messages surrounding women's sexual and reproductive freedom in the country. On the one hand, Turkey is constitutionally secular and certain districts of the city, such as Beyoglu and Kadikoy, are famously progressive for Turkey. Furthermore, Istanbul is full of internationally accredited hospitals, making it a hotspot for medical tourism. On the other hand, there are many social pressures placed on women. For many women, there is an expectation to remain a virgin until marriage, and it is common for women to live with their parents until they marry. On a day-to-day basis, many women also feel judged by their romantic choices, the clothing they wear, or the lifestyles they choose. This creates a discrepancy between the legal options and the social realities of the city. For this reason, it is especially important to do one's research in advance when looking for a gynecologist or STD test.