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Argentina: Difference between revisions

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[[File:Flag of Argentina.svg.png|300px | thumb|right|]]
{| class="wikitable" style="width:200px; border:1px solid black;float:right"
|-
|colspan="8" style="text-align:center"|[[File:Flag of Argentina.svg.png|400px | thumb|right|]]
|-
| '''Contraception: Over-the-Counter'''
| condoms, pills, patch IUD
|-
| '''Contraception: Hospital/Clinic'''
| IUD insertion, injectable, implant
|-
| '''Emergency Contraception'''
| no prescription required
|-
| '''STIs'''
| testing available; no travel restrictions
|-
| '''Menstrual Products'''
| pads, tampons, cups
|-
| '''Abortion Law'''
| legal in all cases for up to 14 weeks of pregnancy
|-
| '''LGBTQ Laws'''
| homosexuality legal
|-
| '''Related Pages'''
| [[Buenos Aires]], [[Córdoba (Argentina)]]
|-
|}


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In Argentina, you will find many health care resources, especially in [[Buenos Aires]]. Contraception (birth control) is fully legal, and you can find birth control pills, IUDs, shots and patches in Argentine cities. There are some recommended gynecologists that are known to be foreigner-friendly and especially hospitable (see details in "Gynecological Exams" section). You can also obtain emergency contraception ("the morning after pill") at pharmacies, public hospitals or health centers. You can purchase pads and tampons in grocery stores, and there is one known seller of menstrual cups in the country. There is no PrEP access but there are many STI testing sites, and there is a national HPV vaccination program in place. For pregnancy, there are some recommended ob/gyns that we have listed in the "Pregnancy" section. Finally, abortion is generally illegal and is only permitted in very specific circumstances, some of which have grey-area legal status. For this reason, there is a large underground economy of clandestine abortions. Some of these are performed in unsafe conditions, so caution should be exercised. General public opinion toward abortion has liberalized in the last decade, yet the country still remains a difficult place for women with unwanted pregnancies.
In Argentina, you will find many health care resources, especially in larger cities such as [[Buenos Aires]] or [[Córdoba (Argentina)]]. Contraception (birth control) is legal and available. You can purchase condoms and birth control pills at pharmacies with no prescription (i.e., over-the-counter). Other contraceptive options are available at clinics or pharmacies (such as IUDs, rings, and injectables) but a prescription or clinic visit may be required. There are some recommended gynecologists that are known to be foreigner-friendly and especially hospitable (see details in "Gynecological Exams" section). You can also obtain emergency contraception ("the morning after pill") at pharmacies, public hospitals, or health centers. You can purchase pads and tampons in grocery stores, and there is at least one known seller of menstrual cups in the country. There is no PrEP access but there are many STI testing sites, and there is a national HPV vaccination program in place. For pregnancy, there are some recommended ob/gyns that we have listed in the "Pregnancy" section.  
 
After many years of activism and advocacy, abortion was ruled as legal by the Argentine Senate in December 2020. Before this ruling, abortion was generally illegal in Argentina, which led to a large underground economy of clandestine abortions. General public opinion toward abortion gradually liberalized in the twenty-first century, ultimately leading to the 2020 ruling.<ref>[https://nacla.org/news/2020/07/08/argentina-abortion-reform-covid Activists Keep Argentina’s Abortion Reform on the Agenda Despite Covid-19]</ref><ref name="cnn_abortionargentina2020>[https://www.cnn.com/2020/12/30/americas/argentina-abortion-senate-vote-intl/index.html Argentina's Senate approves historic bill to legalize abortion]</ref>
 
Demographically, Argentina is a diverse nation, with a large influx of European immigrants in the 19th and 20th centuries and from neighboring countries in the 20th & 21st centuries. The majority of Argentines are nominally Roman Catholic (about 92%). The birth rate has declined since the early 20th century, with a total birth rate of 16 births per 1000 people in 2020 (ranked 110th in the world). There are about 2.2 children born per woman, according to 2020 data (ranked 74th in the world). About one-third of the population lives in Buenos Aires, and about 92% of the population is urbanized.<ref name="cia_argentina">[https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/geos/ar.html CIA World Factbook: Argentina]</ref>


==Contraception (Birth Control)== <!--T:4-->
==Contraception (Birth Control)== <!--T:4-->
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In Argentina, contraception is legal and widely available. You can purchase condoms and birth control pills without a prescription.<ref>[http://ocsotc.org/wp-content/uploads/worldmap/worldmap.html Global Oral Contraception Availability]</ref> <ref>[http://freethepill.org/where-on-earth/ Free the Pill - Where on Earth? Map]</ref> According to a 2015 study, 61.6% of Argentine women (who are married/in unions and of reproductive age) use any form of contraception, including traditional methods, and 15.3% have unmet family planning needs. The most common forms of contraception are birth control pills (27.7%), condoms (17%), IUDs (6.9%), and female sterilization (3.5%). There are especially low rates of usage for contraceptive injectables (2.6%) and traditional methods, such as rhythm (1.1%) and withdrawal (0.5%). Meanwhile, it was found that practically no women were using contraceptive implants (0.0%) or vaginal barrier methods (0.0%).<ref>[http://www.un.org/en/development/desa/population/publications/pdf/family/trendsContraceptiveUse2015Report.pdf Trends in Contraceptive Use Worldwide 2015]</ref>
In Argentina, contraception is legal and widely available. You can purchase condoms and birth control pills without a prescription.<ref>[http://ocsotc.org/wp-content/uploads/worldmap/worldmap.html Global Oral Contraception Availability]</ref> <ref>[http://freethepill.org/where-on-earth/ Free the Pill - Where on Earth? Map]</ref> According to a 2015 study, 61.6% of Argentine women (who are married/in unions and of reproductive age) use any form of contraception, including traditional methods, and 15.3% have unmet family planning needs. The most common forms of contraception are birth control pills (27.7%), condoms (17%), IUDs (6.9%), and female sterilization (3.5%). There are especially low rates of usage for contraceptive injectables (2.6%) and traditional methods, such as rhythm (1.1%) and withdrawal (0.5%). Meanwhile, it was found that practically no women were using contraceptive implants (0.0%) or vaginal barrier methods (0.0%).<ref>[http://www.un.org/en/development/desa/population/publications/pdf/family/trendsContraceptiveUse2015Report.pdf Trends in Contraceptive Use Worldwide 2015]</ref>
 
The history of contraceptive access in Argentina is a complex one, and some Argentine women have faced significant barriers. The Argentine government formerly opposed the sale or use of contraceptives and, during the military dictatorship (1976-83), even condoms were illegal. The early 21st century saw legal changes that helped bring in a new era for contraceptive access, including the  2002 National Law on Sexual Health and Responsible Procreation. In 2003, a provision was passed, which allowed the government to begin freely distributing contraceptives, such as IUDS, but this did not automatically translate into free choice for all. In 2005, the government launched a campaign through television, radio, and the press, declaring that access to contraception was a human right. Yet, that same year, a Human Rights Watch report detailed "how judges, doctors and health workers prevent women from making independent reproductive decisions in violation of women's internationally recognized human rights." The report also analyzed how the impact of spousal pressure and domestic violence limited women's abilities to choose contraception, and discrimination in many hospitals, such as requiring spousal approval for sterilization procedures, further limited women's autonomy. In 2016, the Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) released a report, which detailed how reproductive rights are often not enforced in Argentina, leading to unequal access and opportunities for people.<ref>[https://www.hrw.org/news/2005/06/15/argentina-limits-birth-control-threaten-human-rights Argentina: Limits on Birth Control Threaten Human Rights]</ref> <ref>[https://www.thebubble.com/contraceptive-access-the-state-of-reproductive-healthcare-ahead-of-the-abortion-vote Contraceptive Access: The State of Reproductive Healthcare Ahead of the Abortion Vote]</ref>
 
One particularly difficult form of contraceptive access for women has been sterilization. In 2005, it was reported that many public hospitals required the consent of a woman's husband in order to perform the procedure. According to LaShawn R. Jefferson, Women's Rights director at Human Rights Watch,"Women seeking sterilization face Kafkaesque ordeals. In one public hospital, women had to beg approval from six different authorities, plus get their husband's signature in the presence of two witnesses."<ref>[https://www.hrw.org/news/2005/06/15/argentina-limits-birth-control-threaten-human-rights Argentina: Limits on Birth Control Threaten Human Rights]</ref> However, as this report was from 2005, the situation may have changed or improved since then.


However, some Argentine women face barriers when they try to access contraception. From a historical perspective, the Argentine government formerly opposed the sale or use of contraceptives and, during the military dictatorship (1976-83), even condoms were illegal. In 2003, the government began to freely distribute contraceptives, such as IUDS, for free, but this did not automatically translate into free choice for all. In fact, in 2005, a Human Rights Watch report detailed "how judges, doctors and health workers prevent women from making independent reproductive decisions in violation of women's internationally recognized human rights." The report also analyzed how the impact of spousal pressure and domestic violence limited women's abilities to choose contraception, and discrimination in many hospitals, such as requiring spousal approval for sterilization procedures, further limited women's autonomy.<ref>[https://www.hrw.org/news/2005/06/15/argentina-limits-birth-control-threaten-human-rights Argentina: Limits on Birth Control Threaten Human Rights]</ref>
===What to Get & Where to Get It=== <!--T:10-->
===What to Get & Where to Get It=== <!--T:10-->


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====Consultations & Recommended Physicians==== <!--T:12-->
====Consultations & Recommended Physicians==== <!--T:12-->
* If you don't know which contraceptive method is right for you, you can call the Sexual Health Hotline (Línea de salud sexual): 0800 222 3444. It's free to call them through landlines or public phones throughout Argentina. You can also email the Department of Sexual and Reproductive Health in Buenos Aires (saludreproductiva@buenosaires.gob.ar); they tend to be get back to people within 24 hours. Both services can accommodate Spanish speakers and English speakers.
* If you don't know which contraceptive method is right for you, you can call the Sexual Health Hotline (Línea de salud sexual): 0800 222 3444. It's free to call them through landlines or public phones throughout Argentina. You can also email the Department of Sexual and Reproductive Health in Buenos Aires (saludreproductiva@buenosaires.gob.ar); they tend to be get back to people within 24 hours. Both services can accommodate Spanish speakers and English speakers.
* Recommendation: "Dr. Claudia María Battista is a gynecologist based in Recoleta (3rd floor, Arenales 1611, 4811 6127) who can administer both hormonal and non-hormonal IUDs, after a medical consultation. The best option for each patient and the price of the IUD must be discussed with the doctor, and Dr. Battista speaks English, if your Spanish is not up to par to discuss your reproductive system."<ref>[http://www.thebubble.com/the-bubbles-guide-to-not-getting-pregnant-in-buenos-aires/ The Bubble’s Guide to Not Getting Pregnant in Buenos Aires]</ref>
* For local recommendations of physicians, pharmacies, and gynecologists, you can visit the city pages, such as [[Buenos Aires]] and [[Córdoba (Argentina)]].


====Contraceptive Options==== <!--T:77-->
====Contraceptive Options==== <!--T:77-->
* You can buy '''condoms''' ("preservativos" in Spanish) at pharmacies and supermarkets for $10-30 ARS, but generally around 15 ARS, for a three-pack, or up to $67 ARS for a 12-pack.  
* You can buy '''condoms''' ("preservativos" in Spanish) at pharmacies and supermarkets for $10-30 ARS, but generally around 15 ARS, for a three-pack, or up to $67 ARS for a 12-pack.  
* If you would like to get '''birth control pills''' ("pastillas anticonceptivas" in Spanish), they can be purchased in pharmacies without a prescription for about 3$0-120 ARS. [http://www.farmacity.com.ar/ Farmacity] is a popular pharmacy chain. Some brands you can expect to see are Ovrette, Marvelon, Microlut, Microval, Diane-35, Duoluton, Eugynon, Neogynon, Nordiol, Ovral, Microgynon, Microvlar, Nordette, Miranova and others. To see which pills are available in Argentina, check out  [http://contraceptive.ippf.org/search?search.searchtext=&search.component=&search.countrycode=AR IPFF Argentina], [http://www.alfabeta.net/mf/ Alfabeta], [http://ar.kairosweb.com/ Kairos]. Please note that Argentina has strict importation laws, so be careful to NOT bring in any birth control pills that aren't permitted in Argentina.
* If you would like to get '''birth control pills''' ("pastillas anticonceptivas" in Spanish), they can be purchased in pharmacies without a prescription for about 3$0-120 ARS. [http://www.farmacity.com.ar/ Farmacity] is a popular pharmacy chain. Some brands you can expect to see are Ovrette, Marvelon, Microlut, Microval, Diane-35, Duoluton, Eugynon, Neogynon, Nordiol, Ovral, Microgynon, Microvlar, Nordette, Miranova and others. To see which pills are available in Argentina, check out  [http://contraceptive.ippf.org/search?search.searchtext=&search.component=&search.countrycode=AR IPFF Argentina], [http://www.alfabeta.net/mf/ Alfabeta], [http://ar.kairosweb.com/ Kairos]. Please note that Argentina has strict importation laws, so be careful to NOT bring in any birth control pills that aren't permitted in Argentina.
* If you're interested in the '''contraceptive ring''' (like Nuvaring), you can get it at Farmacity for $240 ARS.
* If you're interested in the '''contraceptive ring''' (like Nuvaring), you can get it at Farmacity for $240 ARS, as of 2017.
* If you want an '''IUD''', you can get the IUD insertion at a hospital or health center. While you can get it done at a public hospital, you'll find that only non-hormonal IUDs are available. They last for 10 years. If you want the hormonal IUDs, which last for 5 years, you'll need to go to a private hospital. For Mirena, it's about $1700 ARS. The copper IUD (not industria argentina) costs around $500-700 ARS.
* If you want an '''IUD''', you can get the IUD insertion at a hospital or health center. While you can get it done at a public hospital, you'll find that only non-hormonal IUDs are available. They last for 10 years. If you want the hormonal IUDs, which last for 5 years, you'll need to go to a private hospital. For Mirena, it's about $1700 ARS, as of 2017. The copper IUD (not industria argentina) costs around $500-700 ARS (2017 price).
* If you want a '''contraceptive control shot/injectable''' ("inyección" in Spanish), it can be purchased at public and private health care facilities. If you have a prescription, you can also get it directly from the pharmacy.<ref>[http://www.thebubble.com/how-to-avoid-pregnancy-scares-in-buenos-aires/ How To Avoid Pregnancy Scares In Buenos Aires]</ref> You may be able to find brands like Cyclofem, Cyclofemina, Dahlia, Depo-Provera, Mesigyna and Perlutal in Argentina. You can probably get the injections for free at public hospitals and health centers, like Hospital General de Agudos A. Zubizarreta or Hospital General de Agudos B. Rivadavia. If you would like to get it at Farmacity, you can get it for around $30 ARS or 40 ARS. Since some pharmacies in Buenos Aires don't carry the shot, you should confirm a stable place to get an injection before you commit to shots.
* If you want a '''contraceptive control shot/injectable''' ("inyección" in Spanish), it can be purchased at public and private health care facilities. If you have a prescription, you can also get it directly from the pharmacy.<ref>[http://www.thebubble.com/how-to-avoid-pregnancy-scares-in-buenos-aires/ How To Avoid Pregnancy Scares In Buenos Aires]</ref> You may be able to find brands like Cyclofem, Cyclofemina, Dahlia, Depo-Provera, Mesigyna and Perlutal in Argentina. You can probably get the injections for free at public hospitals and health centers, like Hospital General de Agudos A. Zubizarreta or Hospital General de Agudos B. Rivadavia. If you would like to get it at Farmacity, you can get it for around $30 ARS or 40 ARS. Since some pharmacies in Buenos Aires don't carry the shot, you should confirm a stable place to get an injection before you commit to shots.
* If you want the '''contraceptive implant''' ("implante" or "anticonceptivo subcutáneo" in Spanish), this has been available in Argentina since 2012. However, they are not commonly used, so you may need to go to a specialized provider to obtain the insertion procedure.
* If you want the '''contraceptive implant''' ("implante" or "anticonceptivo subcutáneo" in Spanish), this has been available in Argentina since 2012. However, they are not commonly used, so you may need to go to a specialized provider to obtain the insertion procedure.
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====Additional Information==== <!--T:78-->
====Additional Information==== <!--T:78-->
* For a summary (from April 2016) about getting contraception in Buenos Aires, you can check out: [http://www.thebubble.com/how-to-avoid-pregnancy-scares-in-buenos-aires/ How To Avoid Pregnancy Scares in Buenos Aires (The Bubble)]
* For a summary (from April 2016) about getting contraception in Buenos Aires, you can check out: [http://www.thebubble.com/how-to-avoid-pregnancy-scares-in-buenos-aires/ How To Avoid Pregnancy Scares in Buenos Aires (The Bubble)]
* For a list of contraceptive options available in Argentina, click [http://contraceptive.ippf.org/search?search.searchtext=&search.component=&search.countrycode=AR here]. UPDATE: This website is currently down.
* [https://www.hrw.org/report/2005/06/14/decisions-denied/womens-access-contraceptives-and-abortion-argentina Human Rights Watch Report: Decisions Denied - Women’s Access to Contraceptives and Abortion in Argentina (2005)]


===Costs=== <!--T:13-->
===Costs=== <!--T:13-->
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'''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]. Copper IUDs may also prevent pregnancy up to 5 days after unprotected sex.
'''Important Notes:''' Emergency contraceptive pills 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]. Copper IUDs may also prevent pregnancy up to 5 days after unprotected sex.


===Laws & Social Stigmas=== <!--T:16-->
===Laws & Social Stigmas=== <!--T:16-->


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Emergency contraceptive pills are legal and can be accessed without a prescription.
Emergency contraceptive pills (known as ‘anticoncepcion hormonal de emergencia’ or ’pastilla del dia despues’) are legal and can be accessed without a prescription. While official websites may sometimes state that a prescription is required,<ref name="cec_argentina">[https://www.cecinfo.org/country-by-country-information/status-availability-database/countries/argentina/ Argentina: EC Status and Availability]</ref> our research and contact with locals has found that it is sold over-the-counter and pharmacists do not ask for prescription. If you are under 14 years old, you may need to be accompanied by an adult in order to purchase emergency contraceptive pills.<ref name="cec_argentina" />


===What to Get & Where to Get It=== <!--T:18-->
===What to Get & Where to Get It=== <!--T:18-->


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In Buenos Aires, you can obtain emergency contraceptive pills (also known as "the morning after pill"). In Spanish, it's called "anticoncepción hormonal de emergencia." You can get EC at public hospitals or health centers for free (for 24 hours/day) after a medical consultation. You can also visit a pharmacy, like Farmacity (many of them are open 24 hours), and purchase EC. There are no age restrictions.  
In Argentina, you can obtain emergency contraceptive pills (also known as "the morning after pill"). In Spanish, it's called "anticoncepción hormonal de emergencia." You can get EC at public hospitals or health centers for free (for 24 hours/day) after a medical consultation. You can also visit a pharmacy, like Farmacity (many of them are open 24 hours), and purchase EC. There are no age restrictions.  


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===Costs=== <!--T:21-->
===Costs=== <!--T:21-->
* If you try to access emergency contraceptive pills from the public health system, they should be free of charge. We're not if this also applies to foreigners, but it does for at least locals.<ref name="cec_argentina" />


==Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs/STDs)== <!--T:22-->
==Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs/STDs)== <!--T:22-->


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'''Important Note''': Anyone can be affected by STIs. It's possible to have one without having symptoms . If you've had unprotected sex, it's important you have a screen.
'''Important Note''': Anyone can be affected by STIs. It's possible to have one without having symptoms. If you've had unprotected sex, it's important you have a screen. Furthermore, if you think that you've been recently exposed to HIV (i.e. within 72 hours), you can 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].
 
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'''Important Note - 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=== <!--T:25-->
===Laws & Social Stigmas=== <!--T:25-->
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Rates of HIV in Argentina are increasing - whilst some groups are affected more than others (men who have sex with men, commercial sex workers, intravenous drug users, and prisoners), anyone can get it and it's vital you are tested if you're having unprotected sex.  
Between 2000-10, the HIV infection rate decreased.<ref>[http://www.fast-trackcities.org/sites/default/files/Thirty%20Years%20of%20the%20HIV%3AAIDS%20Epidemic%20in%20Argentina.%20World%20Bank%20%282015%29.pdf Thirty Years of the HIV/AIDS Epidemic in Argentina]</ref> The Ministry of Health also reported a 15% decrease in HIV infection rates between 2006-2016.<ref>[https://www.thebubble.com/getting-tested-for-hiv-just-got-easier-in-argentina Getting Tested For HIV Just Got Easier In Argentina]</ref> However, the rates of HIV in Argentina are reportedly now increasing (with a 3% raise between 2009-2019)<ref>[https://www.unaids.org/en/regionscountries/countries/argentina UNAIDS Country factsheets ARGENTINA, 2019]</ref> - whilst some groups are affected more than others (men who have sex with men, commercial sex workers, intravenous drug users, and prisoners), anyone can get it and it's vital you are tested if you're having unprotected sex.  


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The Argentine government has taken some steps to address the increasing HIV/AIDS rate. The national AIDS response receives 98% of its funding from domestic funds, and the mayor of Buenos Aires pledged to Fast-Track the AIDS response in Buenos Aires in 2015.<ref>[http://www.unaids.org/en/resources/presscentre/featurestories/2015/september/20150916_mayors Mayors of Santiago and Buenos Aires pledge to accelerate the AIDS response in their cities]</ref>
The Argentine government has taken some steps to address the increasing HIV/AIDS rate. The national AIDS response receives 98% of its funding from domestic funds, and the mayor of Buenos Aires pledged to Fast-Track the AIDS response in Buenos Aires in 2015.<ref>[http://www.unaids.org/en/resources/presscentre/featurestories/2015/september/20150916_mayors Mayors of Santiago and Buenos Aires pledge to accelerate the AIDS response in their cities]</ref>
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More information:
* For up-to-date information about how and where to test for STIs, HIV and safe sex see ['''How To Stay STI and Baby-Free in Buenos Aires (The Bubble)''' http://www.thebubble.com/sexual-health-101-how-to-stay-sti-and-baby-free-in-buenos-aires/]


====Testing Facilities==== <!--T:30-->
====Testing Facilities==== <!--T:30-->


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You can get tested at tons of public hospitals in Buenos Aires. The wait times will be longer but costs will be very low, and potentially free. For the full list, click [http://www.msal.gob.ar/images/stories/bes/graficos/0000000105cnt-2013-05_centros-testeo.pdf here]. Also, here are some well-known public hospitals:
* You can get tested at public hospitals in Argentine cities and towns. The wait times will be longer but costs will be very low, and potentially free. For the full list, click [http://www.msal.gob.ar/images/stories/bes/graficos/0000000105cnt-2013-05_centros-testeo.pdf here].
 
* For local recommendations for hospitals, clinics, and other testing sites, visit the city pages, such as the [[Buenos Aires]] page.
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* [http://www.hospitalramosmejia.info/ Hospital Ramos Mejía]: Address: Gral. Urquiza 609, C1221ADC Buenos Aires, Argentina, Phone: +54 11 4931-1884
* [http://www.buenosaires.gob.ar/hospitalargerich Hospital Argerich]: Address: Av. Almte Brown 202, Cdad. Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina
* [http://www.hospitalfernandez.org/ Hospital Fernández]: Address: Cerviño 3356, C1425AGP CABA, Argentina. Phone: +54 11 4808-2600.
* [http://www.hospitalvelez.org.ar/ Hospital Vélez Sarsfield]: Address: Pedro Calderón de la Barca 1550, C1407KQF CABA, Argentina. Phone: +54 11 4639-8700.
 
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If you would like to get tested at a private facility, the costs will be higher. But the wait times will be faster and facilities will generally be nicer:
 
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* [http://www.hospitalaleman.com Hospital Aleman]: Open 24 hours. Tests were about $130p in 2011.  Address: Av Pueyrredón 1640, C1118AAT CABA, Argentina, Phone: +54 11 4827-7000.
* [https://www.swissmedical.com.ar/smgnewsite/ Swiss Medical]: They have locations all over the city so check the website.
* [http://www.sagradafamilia.com.ar/ Clinica La Sagrada Familia]: Small clinic. Does health checks for around $120p. Address: José Hernández 1642, Ciudad de Buenos Aires, Argentina - Tel: (5411) 6343-7800
* [http://www.ceusa-laeh.com.ar/ Ceusa Leah]: Address: Pueyrredón 768 1º Piso CP 1032 - Capital Federal Tel / Fax: 4961-8348 / 4962-3505 email: info@ceusa-laeh.com.ar
* [http://www.nexo.org/ Nexo Asociación Civil]: Does HIV rapid test. Address: Avda. Callao 339 6 A y B, Ciudad de Buenos Aires, Argentina -0800 345 6396, info@nexo.org, Monday to Friday, 15:30-21:00
* [http://www.hospitalfernandez.org/ Hospital Fernandez]: Address: Cerviño 3356, C1425AGP CABA, Argentina, Phone: +54 11 4808-2600.
* [http://www.hospitalbritanico.org.ar/ Hospital Británico de Buenos Aires]: Address: Perdriel 74, C1280AEB Buenos Aires, Argentina. Phone: +54 11 4309-6400


====Support==== <!--T:35-->
====Support==== <!--T:35-->
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===Costs=== <!--T:37-->
===Costs=== <!--T:37-->
* If you would like to get tested at a private facility, the costs will be higher. But the wait times will be faster and facilities will generally be nicer.
===Additional Information===
* For up-to-date information about how and where to test for STIs, HIV and safe sex see [http://www.thebubble.com/sexual-health-101-how-to-stay-sti-and-baby-free-in-buenos-aires/ How To Stay STI and Baby-Free in Buenos Aires (The Bubble)]
* [https://www.unaids.org/en/regionscountries/countries/argentina UNAIDS data on Argentina]
* [http://www.fast-trackcities.org/sites/default/files/Thirty%20Years%20of%20the%20HIV%3AAIDS%20Epidemic%20in%20Argentina.%20World%20Bank%20%282015%29.pdf World Bank report: Thirty Years of the HIV/AIDS Epidemic in Argentina]


==Medications & Vaccines== <!--T:38-->
==Medications & Vaccines== <!--T:38-->
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==Gynecological Exams== <!--T:49-->
==Gynecological Exams== <!--T:49-->


===Laws & Social Stigmas=== <!--T:50-->
* If you want to find a recommended gynecologist or clinic, you'll need to visit one of our city pages for local recommendations, such as the [[Buenos_Aires#Gynecological_Exams|Buenos Aires]].
 
* You can read a [https://helloclue.com/articles/about-clue/clue-ambassador-stories-my-first-gyno-appointment personal testimonial] of a LGBTQ+ individual on their first gynecological exam in Argentina.
===What to Get & Where to Get It=== <!--T:51-->
* A 2008 found that low-income women and women experiencing poverty in Argentina have lower rates of accessing pap smear tests in Argentina.<ref>[https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19027622/ Social inequality in Pap smear coverage: identifying under-users of cervical cancer screening in Argentina]</ref>
 
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* Dr. Liliana Rossi: "I can't recommend her highly enough!" " She explains everything, listens, asks questions... just perfect. Her praxis rooms are friendly, warm and clean." This ob/gyn has been recommended; supposed to be a good listener and speaks English. Pap for $40 without insurance (in 2010). Address: Rosario 188 1° "B", Capital Federal, Argentina. Phone: 4901-2475
* Dra. Battista, Claudia María: Address: "She was lovely." Speaks Spanish and maybe English too. Av. Santa Fe 1675 2° "A", Recoleta, 815-4802 y 15-4448-4733, Email: claudiabattista@fibertel.com.ar.
* Dra. Adriana Vilariño: She speaks Spanish and English, and she's been recommended. Address: Av. Santa Fe 3069 2° "B" - Recoleta. Phone: 4822-8484, 4822-2424, 4826-7090.
* Clinica de la Mujer / Dra Bernardino: "Young, smart, speaks English. Clean office." Address: Av. Libertador 16.606 / San Isidro, Tel: 4742-0205 / 4743-7855
* 8197 - Dra. Campos, Liliana Beatriz: "Liliane is excellent and was a consumate professional in the birth of our son here 2 years ago. " Marcelo T. de Alvear 2345 4° "B", Recoleta, 4826-0209 y 4823-9058
* Dra. Graciela Gerardi: Scalabrini Ortiz 2356 3 floor A. Tel. 4831 9842 and cel: 155 695 9269
* CERIM: bilateral mammogram - 400 pesos, vaginal sonogram - 150 pesos, breast sonogram 170 pesos, bone density 100 per area. Address: Azcuenaga 970. Tel 4965 2500
 
===Costs=== <!--T:53-->


==Pregnancy== <!--T:54-->
==Pregnancy== <!--T:54-->


===Laws & Social Stigmas=== <!--T:55-->
===Laws & Social Stigmas=== <!--T:55-->
The maternal mortality rate is 39 deaths per 100,000 live births, according to 2019 data.<ref name=cia_argentina /> Mothers are given 90 days of paid maternity leave, which is paid by their employer. It is common for mothers to take 45 days before the birth and 45 days after the birth.<ref>[https://www.angloinfo.com/how-to/argentina/healthcare/pregnancy-birth/maternity-leave Argentina: Maternity Leave and Benefits]</ref> Fathers who work in the public sector are given 15 days of paternity leave. Fathers who work in the private sector are given 2 days of paternity leave.<ref>[https://www.thebubble.com/paid-paternity-leave-increased-to-encourage-co-parenting-in-buenos-aires Paid Paternity Leave Increased to Encourage Co-Parenting in Buenos Aires]</ref>


===What to Get & Where to Get It=== <!--T:56-->
===What to Get & Where to Get It=== <!--T:56-->


<!--T:57-->
* For local recommendations on ob/gyns and clinics, you can check out the city pages, such as [[Buenos Aires#Pregnancy|Buenos Aires]].
* Dr. Federico del Giudice - Grupo Medico Lomas de San Isidro (in the northern suburbs of Buenos Aires): "I have never met such a caring OB/GYN and would highly recommend him if you're thinking about having a baby. He was recommended to me by another expat and I'm so grateful for her recommendation."<ref>[http://movingtoargentina.typepad.com/my_weblog/2011/01/gynocologist-ob-in-buenos-aires.html Gynocologist OB in Buenos Aires]</ref>
* Doctor, Armando Cardahi: "He is an obstetrician and fertility specialist. He has an office in Pilar and Capital, and works with Suizo Argentino Maternity. He was the dr. who did my c-section and he is very very good and nice. He also speaks good English and understands everything. As I was practicing my Spanish he preferred using English with me." Address: Vicente Lopez 1857. Phone number is: 4801-0583<ref>[http://baexpats.org/topic/3426-female-gynecologist/page__st__20 Female Gynecologist]</ref>


===Costs=== <!--T:58-->
===Costs=== <!--T:58-->
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In Argentina, abortion is generally not permitted. It is only completely legal in certain circumstances, which include: to save the life of the woman, to protect physical health, and in cases of rape. It should be noted that the Ministry of Health has not formally ratified protocols that permit abortions in cases of rape, so the legality is debatable, yet it appears to be fully decriminalized.<ref>[http://www.reproductiverights.org/press-room/argentina-decriminalizes-abortion-in-all-cases-of-rape Argentina Decriminalizes Abortion in All Cases of Rape]</ref> All other reasons for an abortion, including risk of fetal impairment, economic or social reasons, or availability upon request, are prohibited. According to the Pact of San Jose (1994), the right to life begins "in general, from the moment of conception."<ref>[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Abortion_in_Argentina Abortion in Argentina]</ref> While some Argentine politicians have expressed interest in changing the abortion laws in the past, the Catholic Church has played a strong role in Argentine society, and no politicians have successfully gone forth with these plans.  
In Argentina, abortion is legally available for up to 14 weeks of pregnancy, according to a December 2020 ruling. We'll update this section as more information comes in.<ref name="cnn_abortionargentina2020 /> For comprehensive information Argentine abortion laws its history, we recommend you visit the [[Argentina]] country page.
 
Before this ruling, abortion was generally not permitted. It was only completely legal in certain circumstances, which included: to save the life of the woman, to protect physical health, and in cases of rape. It should be noted that the Ministry of Health had not formally ratified protocols that permited abortions in cases of rape, so the legality was debatable, yet it appearred to be fully decriminalized.<ref>[http://www.reproductiverights.org/press-room/argentina-decriminalizes-abortion-in-all-cases-of-rape Argentina Decriminalizes Abortion in All Cases of Rape]</ref> All other reasons for an abortion, including risk of fetal impairment, economic or social reasons, or availability upon request, were prohibited. According to the Pact of San Jose (1994), the right to life begins "in general, from the moment of conception."<ref>[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Abortion_in_Argentina Abortion in Argentina]</ref> While some Argentine politicians expressed interest in changing the abortion laws in the past, the Catholic Church played a strong role in Argentine society, and politicians struggled to go forth with these plans.  


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<!--T:81-->
The penalty for an illegal abortion is up to four years in prison for the person who performed the abortion. However, in order to penalize the physician, the police must actually find a person performing an illegal abortion. This makes the prosecution rather difficult. There are reports of police wire-tapping the phones of at least one abortion clinic in order to prosecute the physicians.<ref>[https://news.vice.com/article/argentinas-doctors-perform-half-a-million-illegal-abortions-a-year-but-legalization-still-seems-unlikely Argentina’s Doctors Perform Half a Million Illegal Abortions a Year, But Legalization Still Seems Unlikely]</ref>
The penalty for an illegal abortion was up to four years in prison for the person who performed the abortion. However, in order to penalize the physician, the police needed to actually find a person performing an illegal abortion. This made the prosecution rather difficult. There were reports of police wire-tapping the phones of at least one abortion clinic in order to prosecute the physicians.<ref>[https://news.vice.com/article/argentinas-doctors-perform-half-a-million-illegal-abortions-a-year-but-legalization-still-seems-unlikely Argentina’s Doctors Perform Half a Million Illegal Abortions a Year, But Legalization Still Seems Unlikely]</ref>


<!--T:82-->
<!--T:82-->
For many years, Argentine abortion laws only permitted abortion in cases when the woman's life was endangered. In March 2012, the provisions were expanded after a landmark case, in which the Supreme Court allowed a 15-year old who was raped by stepfather to obtain an abortion. As a result, the Supreme Court ruled that abortion in cases of rape should not be criminalized, and they ruled that a sworn affidavit confirming the rape would be enough to allow the abortion.<ref>[http://www.reuters.com/article/us-argentina-abortion-idUSBRE89B16B20121012 Rape victims struggle to get legal abortions in Argentina]</ref> There has not been a formal discussion of revision of abortion laws in Argentine political life. However, it appears that public opinion is gradually changing. In 2003, a poll found that 30% of Argentines thought abortion should be permitted "regardless of situation," 47% thought it should be permitted "under certain circumstances" and 23% thought that abortion should never be permitted. Later, in September 2011, the same poll showed that 45% of Argentines thought abortion should be permitted for any reason.<ref>[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Abortion_in_Argentina Abortion in Argentina]</ref>  
For many years, Argentine abortion laws only permitted abortion in cases when the woman's life was endangered. In March 2012, the provisions were expanded after a landmark case, in which the Supreme Court allowed a 15-year old who was raped by stepfather to obtain an abortion. As a result, the Supreme Court ruled that abortion in cases of rape should not be criminalized, and they ruled that a sworn affidavit confirming the rape would be enough to allow the abortion.<ref>[http://www.reuters.com/article/us-argentina-abortion-idUSBRE89B16B20121012 Rape victims struggle to get legal abortions in Argentina]</ref>  
 
Public opinion began to to gradually change in the twenty-first century. In 2003, a poll found that 30% of Argentines thought abortion should be permitted "regardless of situation," 47% thought it should be permitted "under certain circumstances" and 23% thought that abortion should never be permitted. Later, in September 2011, the same poll showed that 45% of Argentines thought abortion should be permitted for any reason.<ref>[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Abortion_in_Argentina Abortion in Argentina]</ref>  


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<!--T:84-->
<!--T:84-->
It is estimated that half a million abortions happen in Argentina each year, which would be 40% of all pregnancies.<ref>[https://news.vice.com/article/argentinas-doctors-perform-half-a-million-illegal-abortions-a-year-but-legalization-still-seems-unlikely Argentina’s Doctors Perform Half a Million Illegal Abortions a Year, But Legalization Still Seems Unlikely]</ref> Unfortunately, many of these clandestine abortions are performed in unsafe conditions or by unqualified personnel. The number one cause for maternal mortality rates in Argentina is unsafe abortions, which is estimated to be about to 31% of maternal deaths.
Before abortion was legalized in Argentina, it was estimated that half a million abortions happen in Argentina each year, which would be 40% of all pregnancies.<ref>[https://news.vice.com/article/argentinas-doctors-perform-half-a-million-illegal-abortions-a-year-but-legalization-still-seems-unlikely Argentina’s Doctors Perform Half a Million Illegal Abortions a Year, But Legalization Still Seems Unlikely]</ref> Many of these clandestine abortions were performed in unsafe conditions or by unqualified personnel. The number one cause for maternal mortality rates in Argentina is unsafe abortions, which is estimated to be about to 31% of maternal deaths.


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<!--T:86-->
<!--T:86-->
There have been reported difficulties for women seeking abortions, due to the fears expressed by physicians. As reported in Argentina Independent, "For poor women, public hospitals are often the only available option. Yet frequently, fear of legal repercussions, or a personal moral stance, leads health professionals in public hospitals to demand judicial authorisation before agreeing to terminate the pregnancy, despite the fact that it is not required by law. For their part, some judges likewise refuse to authorise the practice, arguing that they only have a role once the abortion has already been performed."<ref>[http://www.argentinaindependent.com/socialissues/humanrights/abortion-in-argentina-unsafe-and-unattainable/ Abortion in Argentina: Unsafe and Unattainable]</ref>
There were also reported difficulties for women seeking abortions, due to the fears expressed by physicians. As reported in Argentina Independent, "For poor women, public hospitals are often the only available option. Yet frequently, fear of legal repercussions, or a personal moral stance, leads health professionals in public hospitals to demand judicial authorisation before agreeing to terminate the pregnancy, despite the fact that it is not required by law. For their part, some judges likewise refuse to authorise the practice, arguing that they only have a role once the abortion has already been performed."<ref>[http://www.argentinaindependent.com/socialissues/humanrights/abortion-in-argentina-unsafe-and-unattainable/ Abortion in Argentina: Unsafe and Unattainable]</ref>


===What to Get & Where to Get It=== <!--T:64-->
===What to Get & Where to Get It=== <!--T:64-->
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* If you are pregnant and considering getting an abortion outside Argentina, you will need to consider the following costs: transportation to the country where you will be obtaining an abortion, hotel or accommodation costs in that country, cost of the abortion in the country and the total amount of days you may need to be in the country both before and after the abortion.
* If you are pregnant and considering getting an abortion outside Argentina, you will need to consider the following costs: transportation to the country where you will be obtaining an abortion, hotel or accommodation costs in that country, cost of the abortion in the country and the total amount of days you may need to be in the country both before and after the abortion.


==Advocacy & Counseling== <!--T:68-->
==Advocacy, Counseling, & Crisis Support== <!--T:68-->


===Laws & Social Stigmas=== <!--T:69-->
===Laws & Social Stigmas=== <!--T:69-->
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* Ambulance and Medical Emergencies: Call 107
* Ambulance and Medical Emergencies: Call 107
* Tourist Police: Call 0800-999-5000 / 0800-999-2838.
* Tourist Police: Call 0800-999-5000 / 0800-999-2838.
* [https://www.botondepanicoast.com.ar/niunamenos The Panic Button/NiUnaMenos]: This is an app that you can use in a crisis/emergency situation. Designed to work in a familiar way, where the person has the possibility to send an alert to predefined trusted contacts  (family, neighbors, friends, etc) that can assist in cases of emergency . This alert is sent via SMS, indicating the emergency situation and the location where the person is.
* City Government Services: Call 147 (Mon-Fri 7.30am-8.30pm; Sat, Sun & public holidays 08.30am-2.30pm)
* City Government Services: Call 147 (Mon-Fri 7.30am-8.30pm; Sat, Sun & public holidays 08.30am-2.30pm)
* If you are a victim of domestic violence or gender-based violence, there are shelters that may be able to house you or help you. For a complete list, please refer to the [http://www.jus.gob.ar/atencion-al-ciudadano/guia-de-derivaciones/violencia-familiar.aspx Domestic Violence Guide] from the Ministry of Justice and Human Rights.
* If you are a victim of domestic violence or gender-based violence, there are shelters that may be able to house you or help you. For a complete list, please refer to the [http://www.jus.gob.ar/atencion-al-ciudadano/guia-de-derivaciones/violencia-familiar.aspx Domestic Violence Guide] from the Ministry of Justice and Human Rights.

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