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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"
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|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]].Throughout the country, contraception (birth control) is fully legal, and you can find birth control pills, IUDs, shots and patches. 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. 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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'''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].
'''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=== <!--T:6-->
===Laws & Social Stigmas=== <!--T:7-->
 
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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>


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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>
In Argentina, contraception is legal and widely available. You can purchase 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 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>


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>  
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.


===What to Get & Where to Get It=== <!--T:8-->
===What to Get & Where to Get It=== <!--T:10-->


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[[File:Yasmin argentina.jpg|250px | thumb|left|frame|'''Yasmin pills purchased in Argentina''']]
[[File:Yasmin argentina.jpg|250px | thumb|left|frame|'''Yasmin pills purchased in Argentina''']]
[[File:Yasmin2 argentina.jpg|250px | thumb|left|frame|'''Yasmin pills purchased in Argentina''']]
[[File:Yasmin2 argentina.jpg|250px | thumb|left|frame|'''Yasmin pills purchased in Argentina''']]


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====Consultations & Recommended Physicians==== <!--T:12-->
====Consultations & Recommended Physicians====
* 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====
====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.
* If you're interested in the '''contraceptive patch''' ("parche" in Spanish), you can get it a pharmacies, like Farmacity. It's not covered by the public health system, so expect to pay around $150-$200. In 2016, Farmacity quoted the price as $168 ARS.<ref>[http://www.thebubble.com/how-to-avoid-pregnancy-scares-in-buenos-aires/ How To Avoid Pregnancy Scares In Buenos Aires]</ref>
* If you're interested in the '''contraceptive patch''' ("parche" in Spanish), you can get it a pharmacies, like Farmacity. It's not covered by the public health system, so expect to pay around $150-$200. In 2016, Farmacity quoted the price as $168 ARS.<ref>[http://www.thebubble.com/how-to-avoid-pregnancy-scares-in-buenos-aires/ How To Avoid Pregnancy Scares In Buenos Aires]</ref>


====Additional Information====
====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:11-->
===Costs=== <!--T:13-->


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Due to government subsidies, birth control pills should be free in Argentina for Argentine nationals.<ref>[http://www.businessinsider.com/all-of-the-countries-where-birth-control-is-free-2015-1 All Of The Countries Where Birth Control Is Free]</ref> <ref>[https://www.vox.com/2014/6/30/5857904/where-the-pill-is-free Here's a map of the countries where the pill is fully subsidized (it includes Iran)]</ref> If you're a foreigner, we're not sure what costs you will need to pay at pharmacies (if you do know, please update this page with the info).
Due to government subsidies, birth control pills should be free in Argentina for Argentine nationals.<ref>[http://www.businessinsider.com/all-of-the-countries-where-birth-control-is-free-2015-1 All Of The Countries Where Birth Control Is Free]</ref> <ref>[https://www.vox.com/2014/6/30/5857904/where-the-pill-is-free Here's a map of the countries where the pill is fully subsidized (it includes Iran)]</ref> If you're a foreigner, we're not sure what costs you will need to pay at pharmacies (if you do know, please update this page with the info).


==Emergency Contraception (Morning After Pill)== <!--T:12-->
==Emergency Contraception (Morning After Pill)== <!--T:14-->


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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:14-->
===Laws & Social Stigmas=== <!--T:16-->


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Emergency contraception is 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:16-->
===What to Get & Where to Get It=== <!--T:18-->


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In Buenos Aires, you can obtain emergency contraception (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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* Some of the dedicated emergency contraception brands you can expect to find in pharmacies are Norgestrel Max Unidosis, Postinor 1 and Segurite UD (for all of these, take 1 pill within 120 hours after unprotected sex). You can also find Norgestrel-Max, Ovulol and Postinor-2 (for all of these, take 2 pills within 120 hours after unprotected sex).<ref>[http://ec.princeton.edu/worldwide/ Princeton EC Website]</ref>
* Some of the dedicated emergency contraception brands you can expect to find in pharmacies are Norgestrel Max Unidosis, Postinor 1 and Segurite UD (for all of these, take 1 pill within 120 hours after unprotected sex). You can also find Norgestrel-Max, Ovulol and Postinor-2 (for all of these, take 2 pills within 120 hours after unprotected sex).<ref>[http://ec.princeton.edu/worldwide/ Princeton EC Website]</ref>
* If you can't access dedicated emergency contraception, you can use oral contraceptive (regular birth control pills) as emergency contraception. For progestin-only pills, you can take Ovrette (take 40 pills within 120 hours after unprotected sex). You can also take Microlut or Micronova (take 50 pills within 120 hours after unprotected sex). For combined progestin-estrogen pills, remember that, in 28-day packs, only the first 21 pills can be used. Of these, you can take Duoluton, Eugynon, Neogynon, Nordiol or Ovral (take 2 pills within 120 hours after unprotected sex and take 2 more pills 12 hours later). You can take Microgynon, Microvlar or Nordette (take 4 pills within 120 hours after unprotected sex and take 4 more pills 12 hours later). You can also take Miranova (take 5 pills within 120 hours after unprotected sex and take 5 more pills 12 hours later).<ref>[http://ec.princeton.edu/worldwide/ Princeton EC Website]</ref>
* If you can't access dedicated emergency contraception, you can use oral contraceptive (regular birth control pills) as emergency contraception. For progestin-only pills, you can take Ovrette (take 40 pills within 120 hours after unprotected sex). You can also take Microlut or Micronova (take 50 pills within 120 hours after unprotected sex). For combined progestin-estrogen pills, remember that, in 28-day packs, only the first 21 pills can be used. Of these, you can take Duoluton, Eugynon, Neogynon, Nordiol or Ovral (take 2 pills within 120 hours after unprotected sex and take 2 more pills 12 hours later). You can take Microgynon, Microvlar or Nordette (take 4 pills within 120 hours after unprotected sex and take 4 more pills 12 hours later). You can also take Miranova (take 5 pills within 120 hours after unprotected sex and take 5 more pills 12 hours later).<ref>[http://ec.princeton.edu/worldwide/ Princeton EC Website]</ref>


===Costs=== <!--T:19-->
===Costs=== <!--T:21-->


==Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs/STDs)== <!--T:20-->
* 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" />


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==Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs/STDs)== <!--T:22-->
Anyone can be affected by STIs. It's possible to have one without having symptoms and so if you've had unprotected sex it's important you have a screen.


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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/]
'''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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===Laws & Social Stigmas=== <!--T:25-->
Rates of HIV in Argentina are increasing - whilst some groups are affected more than others (men who have sex with men, commercial sex workers and intravenous drug users), anyone can get it and it's vital you are tested if you're having unprotected sex.


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'''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=== <!--T:22-->
 
<!--T:23-->
You can enter the country if you're HIV+. There are no travel restrictions applied to anyone with STIs. However, according to the National AIDS Law No 23.798, all immigrants are required to take HIV tests.<ref>[http://www.hivtravel.org/Default.aspx?PageId=143&CountryId=20 ARGENTINA - REGULATIONS ON ENTRY, STAY AND RESIDENCE FOR PLHIV]</ref>
You can enter the country if you're HIV+. There are no travel restrictions applied to anyone with STIs. However, according to the National AIDS Law No 23.798, all immigrants are required to take HIV tests.<ref>[http://www.hivtravel.org/Default.aspx?PageId=143&CountryId=20 ARGENTINA - REGULATIONS ON ENTRY, STAY AND RESIDENCE FOR PLHIV]</ref>


===What to Get & Where to Get It=== <!--T:24-->
<!--T:27-->
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.


====Testing Facilities==== <!--T:25-->
<!--T:28-->
 
In 2016, there were about 5500 HIV infections and 2400 AIDS-related deaths. The infection rate between 2010 and 2016 rose by 16% and AIDS-related deaths rose by 3%. In total, there are an estimated 120,000 people (adults and children) living with HIV in Argentina, and an estimated 91,000 of people with HIV in Argentina know their status, as of 2017. In terms of treatment, about 66% of people are receiving ART, though about 90% of pregnant women receive ARV for PMTCT.<ref>[http://www.unaids.org/en/regionscountries/countries/argentina UNAIDS Country Report - Argentina]</ref>
<!--T:26-->
* You can get tested at tons of public hospitals in Argetina. 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:


<!--T:75-->
<!--T:80-->
* [http://www.hospitalramosmejia.info/ Hospital Ramos Mejía]: Adresse: Gral. Urquiza 609, C1221ADC Buenos Aires, Argentine, Tél: +54 11 4931-1884
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>
* [http://www.buenosaires.gob.ar/hospitalargerich Hospital Argerich]: Adresse: Av. Almte Brown 202, Cdad. Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentine
* [http://www.hospitalfernandez.org/ Hospital Fernández]: Adresse: Cerviño 3356, C1425AGP CABA, Argentine. Tél: +54 11 4808-2600.
* [http://www.hospitalvelez.org.ar/ Hospital Vélez Sarsfield]: Adresse: Pedro Calderón de la Barca 1550, C1407KQF CABA, Argentine. Tél: +54 11 4639-8700.


<!--T:76-->
====Testing Facilities==== <!--T:30-->
* 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:


<!--T:77-->
<!--T:31-->
* [http://www.hospitalaleman.com Hospital Aleman]: Ouvert 24 heures. Les tests coûtaient environ 130 pesos en 2011.  Adresse: Av Pueyrredón 1640, C1118AAT CABA, Argentine, Tél: +54 11 4827-7000.
* 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].
* [https://www.swissmedical.com.ar/smgnewsite/ Swiss Medical]: Il y a des établissements dans toute la ville, donc allez voir sur leur site internet.
* For local recommendations for hospitals, clinics, and other testing sites, visit the city pages, such as the [[Buenos Aires]] page.
* [http://www.sagradafamilia.com.ar/ Clinica La Sagrada Familia]: Petite clinique. Etablit des bilans de santé pour environ 120 pesos. Adresse: José Hernández 1642, Ciudad de Buenos Aires, Argentine - Tél: (5411) 6343-7800
* [http://www.ceusa-laeh.com.ar/ Ceusa Leah]: Adresse: Pueyrredón 768 1º Piso CP 1032 - Capital Federal Tél / Fax: 4961-8348 / 4962-3505 email: info@ceusa-laeh.com.ar
* [http://www.nexo.org/ Nexo Asociación Civil]: Réalise des tests VIH rapides. Adresse: Avda. Callao 339 6 A y B, Ciudad de Buenos Aires, Argentine -0800 345 6396, info@nexo.org, du lundi au vendredi, 15:30-21:00
* [http://www.hospitalfernandez.org/ Hospital Fernandez]: Adresse: Cerviño 3356, C1425AGP CABA, Argentine, Tél: +54 11 4808-2600.
* [http://www.hospitalbritanico.org.ar/ Hospital Británico de Buenos Aires]: Adresse: Perdriel 74, C1280AEB Buenos Aires, Argentine. Tél: +54 11 4309-6400


====Support==== <!--T:27-->
====Support==== <!--T:35-->


<!--T:28-->
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* [http://www.huesped.org.ar/ Fundación Huesped]: Focuses on sexual and reproductive rights and helping people with HIV. Operating since 1989.
* [http://www.huesped.org.ar/ Fundación Huesped]: Focuses on sexual and reproductive rights and helping people with HIV. Operating since 1989.
* [http://feim.org.ar/ Fundación para Estudio e Investigación de la Mujer]: Focuses on helping women and health programs; organizes conferences.
* [http://feim.org.ar/ Fundación para Estudio e Investigación de la Mujer]: Focuses on helping women and health programs; organizes conferences.
Line 124: Line 141:
* [http://www.unaids.org/en/regionscountries/countries/argentina UNAIDS Argentina]: "The goal of UNAIDS is to lead and inspire the world in Getting to zero: zero new HIV infections, zero discrimination and zero AIDS-deaths." Alberto Stella, UNAIDS Country Director, Telephone: + 54 11 4328 4365. Fax: + 54 11 4328 2253, Email: STELLAA@UNAIDS.ORG.
* [http://www.unaids.org/en/regionscountries/countries/argentina UNAIDS Argentina]: "The goal of UNAIDS is to lead and inspire the world in Getting to zero: zero new HIV infections, zero discrimination and zero AIDS-deaths." Alberto Stella, UNAIDS Country Director, Telephone: + 54 11 4328 4365. Fax: + 54 11 4328 2253, Email: STELLAA@UNAIDS.ORG.


===Costs=== <!--T:29-->
===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:30-->
==Medications & Vaccines== <!--T:38-->


===Laws & Social Stigmas=== <!--T:31-->
===Laws & Social Stigmas=== <!--T:39-->


===What to Get & Where to Get It=== <!--T:32-->
===What to Get & Where to Get It=== <!--T:40-->


<!--T:33-->
<!--T:41-->
* If you have a yeast infection ("infección por levaduras" in Spanish), you can ask the pharmacist for Fluconazole, which is antifungal medication. They'll be able to give you Fluconazole or something similar.
* If you have a '''yeast infection''' ("infección por levaduras" in Spanish), you can ask the pharmacist for Fluconazole, which is antifungal medication. They'll be able to give you Fluconazole or something similar.
* If you have a urinary tract infection ("Infecciones de las vías urinarias" in Spanish), you can contact a doctor/pharmacist to find out next steps.
* If you have a '''urinary tract infection''' ("Infecciones de las vías urinarias" in Spanish), you can contact a doctor/pharmacist to find out next steps.
* There has been a national HPV vaccination program in Argentina since 2011. The target age for vaccination is 11 years old, and it was estimated that 50% of the target population was vaccinated in 2013.<ref>[http://www.hpvcentre.net/statistics/reports/ARG_FS.pdf Argentina: Human Papillomavirus and Related Cancers, Fact Sheet 2016]</ref>
* There has been a national '''HPV vaccination program''' in Argentina since 2011. The target age for vaccination is 11 years old, and it was estimated that 50% of the target population was vaccinated in 2013.<ref>[http://www.hpvcentre.net/statistics/reports/ARG_FS.pdf Argentina: Human Papillomavirus and Related Cancers, Fact Sheet 2016]</ref>
* There is currently no official PrEP program in Argentina.
* There is currently no official '''Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP)''' program in Argentina, as of 2018.<ref>[https://www.prepwatch.org/ PrEPWatch World Map]</ref>


===Costs=== <!--T:34-->
===Costs=== <!--T:42-->


==Menstruation== <!--T:35-->
==Menstruation== <!--T:43-->


<!--T:36-->
<!--T:44-->
'''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].
'''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=== <!--T:37-->
===Laws & Social Stigmas=== <!--T:45-->


===What to Get & Where to Get It=== <!--T:38-->
===What to Get & Where to Get It=== <!--T:46-->


<!--T:39-->
<!--T:47-->
In Buenos Aires, you can find pads, tampons and pantyliners. Pads are the easiest to find in supermarkets, pharmacies and corner stores. You can purchase tampons in Argentina; they'll typically be non-applicator brands, like OB. If you want a menstrual cup, you can buy a MoonCup at COPA ECOLÓGICA (Tomás Le Bretón 4933 Villa Urquiza Buenos Aires, Capital Federal 1431 Argentina (011) - 11564171648). For DivaCup, LadyCup or Lunette, you'll need to buy them online since there are no local sellers in Argentina.
In Buenos Aires, you can find pads, tampons and pantyliners. Pads are the easiest to find in supermarkets, pharmacies and corner stores. You can purchase tampons in Argentina; they'll typically be non-applicator brands, like OB. If you want a menstrual cup, you can buy a MoonCup at COPA ECOLÓGICA (Tomás Le Bretón 4933 Villa Urquiza Buenos Aires, Capital Federal 1431 Argentina (011) - 11564171648). For DivaCup, LadyCup or Lunette, you'll need to buy them online since there are no local sellers in Argentina. There are also online sellers of menstrual cups, which often have Facebook pages that you message directly, such as [https://www.facebook.com/copamelunabaires/?ref=br_rs MeLuna Menstrual Cup], [https://www.facebook.com/copitamiga/ Copita Amiga/Lunar + Friendship], [https://www.facebook.com/lodelascopas/?ref=br_rs Menstrual Cup in Caba], and many more.


===Costs=== <!--T:40-->
===Costs=== <!--T:48-->


==Gynecological Exams== <!--T:41-->
==Gynecological Exams== <!--T:49-->


===Laws & Social Stigmas=== <!--T:42-->
* 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.
* 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>


===What to Get & Where to Get It=== <!--T:43-->
==Pregnancy== <!--T:54-->


<!--T:44-->
===Laws & Social Stigmas=== <!--T:55-->
* For recommended gynecologists in Buenos Aires, visit the [[Buenos Aires]] page
 
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>


===Costs=== <!--T:45-->
===What to Get & Where to Get It=== <!--T:56-->


==Pregnancy== <!--T:46-->
* For local recommendations on ob/gyns and clinics, you can check out the city pages, such as [[Buenos Aires#Pregnancy|Buenos Aires]].


===Laws & Social Stigmas=== <!--T:47-->
===Costs=== <!--T:58-->


===What to Get & Where to Get It=== <!--T:48-->
==Abortion== <!--T:59-->


<!--T:49-->
<!--T:60-->
* For recommended obstetricians and gynecologists in Buenos Aires, visit the [[Buenos Aires]] page
'''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].


===Costs=== <!--T:50-->
===Laws & Social Stigmas=== <!--T:61-->


==Abortion== <!--T:51-->
<!--T:62-->
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.


<!--T:52-->
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.  
'''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=== <!--T:53-->
<!--T:81-->
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:54-->
<!--T:82-->
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> For all other reasons, 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.
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>  


<!--T:55-->
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>  
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>


<!--T:56-->
<!--T:83-->
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>  
In August 2018, the Argentine Senate narrowly rejected a bill that would have legalized abortion.<ref>[https://www.nytimes.com/2018/08/09/world/americas/argentina-abortion-vote.html Argentina’s Senate Narrowly Rejects Legalizing Abortion]</ref>


<!--T:57-->
<!--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.


<!--T:58-->
<!--T:85-->
As stated in a 2005 Human Rights Watch Report on abortion in Argentina, "The criminalization of abortion leads women to take desperate measures, such as attempting to abort with knitting needles, rubber tubes, parsley sprigs, or the use of abortive medicines without adequate medical assistance.  It also enables clandestine abortion “clinics” to operate with little regard for women’s health and lives. When women hemorrhaging or suffering from life-threatening infections or injuries caused by botched abortions show up at public hospitals, health care personnel sometimes scorn them and deny them treatment.  Doctors performing post-abortion curettage—the highly painful scraping of a woman’s uterus with a sharp instrument—sometimes do so without anesthesia.  Women who fear criminal proceedings are discouraged from seeking necessary post-abortion care, often to the serious detriment of their health.  Some women who have had abortions are sentenced to prison, in a further assault on their human rights."<ref>[https://www.hrw.org/reports/2005/argentina0605/6.htm Obstacles to the Right to Decide in Matters Concerning Abortion]</ref>
As stated in a 2005 Human Rights Watch Report on abortion in Argentina, "The criminalization of abortion leads women to take desperate measures, such as attempting to abort with knitting needles, rubber tubes, parsley sprigs, or the use of abortive medicines without adequate medical assistance.  It also enables clandestine abortion 'clinics' to operate with little regard for women’s health and lives. When women hemorrhaging or suffering from life-threatening infections or injuries caused by botched abortions show up at public hospitals, health care personnel sometimes scorn them and deny them treatment.  Doctors performing post-abortion curettage—the highly painful scraping of a woman’s uterus with a sharp instrument—sometimes do so without anesthesia.  Women who fear criminal proceedings are discouraged from seeking necessary post-abortion care, often to the serious detriment of their health.  Some women who have had abortions are sentenced to prison, in a further assault on their human rights."<ref>[https://www.hrw.org/reports/2005/argentina0605/6.htm Obstacles to the Right to Decide in Matters Concerning Abortion]</ref>


<!--T:59-->
<!--T:86-->
There have also 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:60-->
===What to Get & Where to Get It=== <!--T:64-->


<!--T:61-->
<!--T:65-->
* If you are pregnant and wish to obtain an abortion, your best option is to seek an abortion outside Argentina. While there is an underground illegal abortion industry in Argentina, it's not safe and not recommended. Rather, you may consider traveling to places like [[Uruguay]], [[Mexico City]] or the [[United States]], where you can legally obtain an abortion. However, you should note that, to get an abortion in Uruguay, you need to be an Uruguayan citizen or you need to have continuously lived in Uruguay for at least one year.<ref>[http://www.thebubble.com/how-to-avoid-pregnancy-scares-in-buenos-aires/ How To Avoid Pregnancy Scares In Buenos Aires]</ref>
* If you are pregnant and wish to obtain an abortion, one option is to seek an abortion outside Argentina. You may consider traveling to places like [[Uruguay]], [[Guyana]], [[Mexico City]], or the [[United States]], where you can legally obtain an abortion. However, you should note that, to get an abortion in Uruguay, you need to be an Uruguayan citizen or you need to have continuously lived in Uruguay for at least one year.<ref>[http://www.thebubble.com/how-to-avoid-pregnancy-scares-in-buenos-aires/ How To Avoid Pregnancy Scares In Buenos Aires]</ref>
* You can potentially purchase the "abortion pill" through [https://www.womenonwaves.org/ Women on Waves]. Check out their website for details. If you can't access the website, it may be blocked in your country.
* You can potentially purchase the "abortion pill" through [https://www.womenonwaves.org/ Women on Waves]. Check out their website for details. If you can't access the website, it may be blocked in your country.
* In Argentina, there is an abortion hotline for women who have unwanted pregnancies: Tel: (011) 156 664 7070
* In Argentina, there is an abortion hotline for women who have unwanted pregnancies: Tel: (011) 156 664 7070
* There is a Sexual Health Helpline that you can consult for information: Tel: 0800-222-3444 (toll-free)
* There is a Sexual Health Helpline that you can consult for information: Tel: 0800-222-3444 (toll-free)
* There are many organizations that provide help/resources/information to women who are seeking abortion services in Argentina. You can visit the "Additional Resources" section at the bottom of this page, where we list some of them. We have also listed some below:
** [http://www.redaas.org.ar/ REDAAS]: "REDAAS is a network of health and legal professionals associated with public and community health services in Argentina. Our commitment is to accompany and assist women in situations of legal abortion, understanding it as part of our professional, ethical and legal duty. Our goal is to help remove institutional and political barriers to access safe and legal abortions, promote appropriate interpretation and application of the causes contemplated in the current regulations and build a community to share information, exchange experiences and offer a space of solidarity, encouragement and political support."
** [http://larevuelta.com.ar/ La Revuelta - Colectiva Feminista]: "Through Socorro Rosa (SR), La Revuelta feminist activists (the socorristas) accompany and give women and other people capable of getting pregnant information about how to get a medical abortion (using pills). Women first contact us by telephone, calling to our public number. After that, we have a personal meeting with them where women get all the information they need in order to have a medical abortion. We also accompany and take care of them during the process of abortion. Besides, the socorristas help women obtain ILEs (Legal Termination of Pregnancies) in the public health system." You can call their hotline: 00 54 299 154 722 618. These services are free.
** [http://clacai.org/ Latin American Consortium Against Unsafe Abortion]: This is a regional organization that may have useful information.


===Costs=== <!--T:62-->
===Costs=== <!--T:66-->


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There were reports of relatively "safe" abortions being performed for around 1500 pesos in 2007 -- and, while the prices have surely gone up since 2007, it's hard to verify the current prices.<ref>[https://rewire.news/article/2007/05/24/abortion-in-argentina-fact-and-fantasy/ Abortion in Argentina: Fact and Fantasy]</ref> However, some abortion providers supposedly charge 20,000-40,000 pesos as of 2015.
* There were reports of relatively "safe" abortions being performed for around 1500 pesos in 2007 -- and, while the prices have surely gone up since 2007, it's hard to verify the current prices.<ref>[https://rewire.news/article/2007/05/24/abortion-in-argentina-fact-and-fantasy/ Abortion in Argentina: Fact and Fantasy]</ref> However, some abortion providers supposedly charge 20,000-40,000 pesos as of 2015.
* 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:64-->
==Advocacy, Counseling, & Crisis Support== <!--T:68-->


===Laws & Social Stigmas=== <!--T:65-->
===Laws & Social Stigmas=== <!--T:69-->


===What to Get & Where to Get It=== <!--T:66-->
===What to Get & Where to Get It=== <!--T:70-->


===Costs=== <!--T:67-->
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* Police & general emergencies (dial *31416 from a mobile phone): Call 101 and 911
* Ambulance and Medical Emergencies: Call 107
* 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)
* 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.
* [http://larevuelta.com.ar/ La Revuelta - Colectiva Feminista]: "La Revuelta activists assist women and girls who suffer gender-base violence through Socorro Violeta (SV). We generally meet with them personally and offer legal aid and a safe environment where we can talk about what would be best for them in that particular situation. In addition to these services, we give advice on comprehensive sex education and offer LGBTIQ+ people help and support in the claim for their rights.." You can call their hotline: 00 54 299 154 722 618. These services are free.


==List of Additional Resources== <!--T:68-->
===Costs=== <!--T:71-->


<!--T:69-->
==List of Additional Resources== <!--T:72-->
 
<!--T:73-->
* [https://www.argentina.gob.ar/salud Argentine Ministry of Health and Social Development]
* [https://www.ippf.org/countries/argentina International Planned Parenthood Foundation - Argentina]
* [https://www.reproductiverights.org/our-regions/latin-america-caribbean/argentina Center for Reproductive Rights - Argentina]
* [https://www.equaldex.com/region/argentina Equaldex Argentina]: This website provides information about LGBTQ rights and laws in Argentina. Homosexuality and same-sex marriage are legal in Argentina. It is also legal to change gender. In some regions, there are laws that protect people against employment and housing discrimination. Conversion therapy is banned.
* [http://www.ela.org.ar/ ELA - Equipo Latinoamericano de Justicia y Genero ]: "Our mission is to achieve gender equity through advocacy, networking and capacity development of political and social actors, in order to improve the social, political and economic situation of women. Founded in May 2003 in the City of Buenos Aires, ELA is integrated by an interdisciplinary team of specialists with a background in the State, Universities and Research Centers, International Organizations, legal practice and NGOs." Address: Tucumán 1581 - Floor 5 Dept. 10B . Telephones: 011-4371-2696 and 4371-2920.  City of Buenos Aires Argentina. e-mail: ela@ela.org.ar
* [http://www.lacasadelencuentro.org/ Asociacion Civil La Casa Del Encuentro]: Focuses on women’s social networks. Lobbies for policies to combat all forms of violence, abuse and discrimination against women and children. Address: 1204 De, Rivadavia 3917, Buenos Aires, Argentina, Phone: +54 11 4982-2550
* [http://www.lacasadelencuentro.org/ Asociacion Civil La Casa Del Encuentro]: Focuses on women’s social networks. Lobbies for policies to combat all forms of violence, abuse and discrimination against women and children. Address: 1204 De, Rivadavia 3917, Buenos Aires, Argentina, Phone: +54 11 4982-2550
* [http://niunamenos.org.ar/ Ni Una Menos]: Collective of feminist activists. Email: niunamenosoficial@gmail.com
* [http://socorristasenred.org/ Socorristas en Red]: "Lifeguards in Red -feminists who aborted- (hereinafter SenR) is an articulation of collectives in Argentina. We give information -according to the protocols of the World Health Organization- and we accompany women and other people with gestational capacity who have decided to interrupt unviable pregnancies for that moment in their lives. To do it safely and carefully."
* [http://www.abortolegal.com.ar/ Campaña Nacional por el Derecho al Aborto Legal, Seguro y Gratuito]: "Campaña Nacional por el Derecho al Aborto Legal, Seguro y Gratuito (The National Campaign for the Right to Legal, Safe and Free Abortion) is a broad and diverse federal alliance, which articulates and recovers part of the history of the struggles developed in our country in pursuit of the right to legal, safe and free abortion."
* Transgender House - You can [http://www.unaids.org/en/resources/presscentre/featurestories/2018/march/marcela-romero-casa-trans read this report from UNAIDS] to learn more about Transgender House in Buenos Aires.


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Latest revision as of 01:14, 1 January 2021

Other languages:
Flag of Argentina.svg.png
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)

OVERVIEW

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.[1][2]

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.[3]

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 here.

Laws & Social Stigmas

In Argentina, contraception is legal and widely available. You can purchase condoms and birth control pills without a prescription.[4] [5] 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%).[6]

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.[7] [8]

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."[9] However, as this report was from 2005, the situation may have changed or improved since then.

What to Get & Where to Get It

Yasmin pills purchased in Argentina
Yasmin pills purchased in Argentina

Consultations & Recommended Physicians

  • 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.
  • For local recommendations of physicians, pharmacies, and gynecologists, you can visit the city pages, such as Buenos Aires and Córdoba (Argentina).

Contraceptive Options

  • 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. 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 IPFF Argentina, Alfabeta, 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, 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, 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.[10] 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're interested in the contraceptive patch ("parche" in Spanish), you can get it a pharmacies, like Farmacity. It's not covered by the public health system, so expect to pay around $150-$200. In 2016, Farmacity quoted the price as $168 ARS.[11]

Additional Information

Costs

Due to government subsidies, birth control pills should be free in Argentina for Argentine nationals.[12] [13] If you're a foreigner, we're not sure what costs you will need to pay at pharmacies (if you do know, please update this page with the info).

Emergency Contraception (Morning After Pill)

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 here and here. Copper IUDs may also prevent pregnancy up to 5 days after unprotected sex.

Laws & Social Stigmas

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,[14] 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.[14]

What to Get & Where to Get It

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.

  • Some of the dedicated emergency contraception brands you can expect to find in pharmacies are Norgestrel Max Unidosis, Postinor 1 and Segurite UD (for all of these, take 1 pill within 120 hours after unprotected sex). You can also find Norgestrel-Max, Ovulol and Postinor-2 (for all of these, take 2 pills within 120 hours after unprotected sex).[15]
  • If you can't access dedicated emergency contraception, you can use oral contraceptive (regular birth control pills) as emergency contraception. For progestin-only pills, you can take Ovrette (take 40 pills within 120 hours after unprotected sex). You can also take Microlut or Micronova (take 50 pills within 120 hours after unprotected sex). For combined progestin-estrogen pills, remember that, in 28-day packs, only the first 21 pills can be used. Of these, you can take Duoluton, Eugynon, Neogynon, Nordiol or Ovral (take 2 pills within 120 hours after unprotected sex and take 2 more pills 12 hours later). You can take Microgynon, Microvlar or Nordette (take 4 pills within 120 hours after unprotected sex and take 4 more pills 12 hours later). You can also take Miranova (take 5 pills within 120 hours after unprotected sex and take 5 more pills 12 hours later).[16]

Costs

  • 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.[14]

Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs/STDs)

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 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 here.

Laws & Social Stigmas

You can enter the country if you're HIV+. There are no travel restrictions applied to anyone with STIs. However, according to the National AIDS Law No 23.798, all immigrants are required to take HIV tests.[17]

Between 2000-10, the HIV infection rate decreased.[18] The Ministry of Health also reported a 15% decrease in HIV infection rates between 2006-2016.[19] However, the rates of HIV in Argentina are reportedly now increasing (with a 3% raise between 2009-2019)[20] - 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.

In 2016, there were about 5500 HIV infections and 2400 AIDS-related deaths. The infection rate between 2010 and 2016 rose by 16% and AIDS-related deaths rose by 3%. In total, there are an estimated 120,000 people (adults and children) living with HIV in Argentina, and an estimated 91,000 of people with HIV in Argentina know their status, as of 2017. In terms of treatment, about 66% of people are receiving ART, though about 90% of pregnant women receive ARV for PMTCT.[21]

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.[22]

Testing Facilities

  • 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 here.
  • For local recommendations for hospitals, clinics, and other testing sites, visit the city pages, such as the Buenos Aires page.

Support

  • Fundación Huesped: Focuses on sexual and reproductive rights and helping people with HIV. Operating since 1989.
  • Fundación para Estudio e Investigación de la Mujer: Focuses on helping women and health programs; organizes conferences.
  • FUNDAMIND: Offers job assistance, education, etc. Helps kids with HIV.
  • UNAIDS Argentina: "The goal of UNAIDS is to lead and inspire the world in Getting to zero: zero new HIV infections, zero discrimination and zero AIDS-deaths." Alberto Stella, UNAIDS Country Director, Telephone: + 54 11 4328 4365. Fax: + 54 11 4328 2253, Email: STELLAA@UNAIDS.ORG.

Costs

  • 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

Medications & Vaccines

Laws & Social Stigmas

What to Get & Where to Get It

  • If you have a yeast infection ("infección por levaduras" in Spanish), you can ask the pharmacist for Fluconazole, which is antifungal medication. They'll be able to give you Fluconazole or something similar.
  • If you have a urinary tract infection ("Infecciones de las vías urinarias" in Spanish), you can contact a doctor/pharmacist to find out next steps.
  • There has been a national HPV vaccination program in Argentina since 2011. The target age for vaccination is 11 years old, and it was estimated that 50% of the target population was vaccinated in 2013.[23]
  • There is currently no official Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) program in Argentina, as of 2018.[24]

Costs

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 here. To learn more about menstrual underwear, click here.

Laws & Social Stigmas

What to Get & Where to Get It

In Buenos Aires, you can find pads, tampons and pantyliners. Pads are the easiest to find in supermarkets, pharmacies and corner stores. You can purchase tampons in Argentina; they'll typically be non-applicator brands, like OB. If you want a menstrual cup, you can buy a MoonCup at COPA ECOLÓGICA (Tomás Le Bretón 4933 Villa Urquiza Buenos Aires, Capital Federal 1431 Argentina (011) - 11564171648). For DivaCup, LadyCup or Lunette, you'll need to buy them online since there are no local sellers in Argentina. There are also online sellers of menstrual cups, which often have Facebook pages that you message directly, such as MeLuna Menstrual Cup, Copita Amiga/Lunar + Friendship, Menstrual Cup in Caba, and many more.

Costs

Gynecological Exams

  • 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.
  • You can read a personal testimonial of a LGBTQ+ individual on their first gynecological exam in Argentina.
  • A 2008 found that low-income women and women experiencing poverty in Argentina have lower rates of accessing pap smear tests in Argentina.[25]

Pregnancy

Laws & Social Stigmas

The maternal mortality rate is 39 deaths per 100,000 live births, according to 2019 data.[3] 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.[26] 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.[27]

What to Get & Where to Get It

  • For local recommendations on ob/gyns and clinics, you can check out the city pages, such as Buenos Aires.

Costs

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 here.

Laws & Social Stigmas

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.[2] 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.[28] 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."[29] 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.

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.[30]

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.[31]

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.[32]

In August 2018, the Argentine Senate narrowly rejected a bill that would have legalized abortion.[33]

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.[34] 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.

As stated in a 2005 Human Rights Watch Report on abortion in Argentina, "The criminalization of abortion leads women to take desperate measures, such as attempting to abort with knitting needles, rubber tubes, parsley sprigs, or the use of abortive medicines without adequate medical assistance. It also enables clandestine abortion 'clinics' to operate with little regard for women’s health and lives. When women hemorrhaging or suffering from life-threatening infections or injuries caused by botched abortions show up at public hospitals, health care personnel sometimes scorn them and deny them treatment. Doctors performing post-abortion curettage—the highly painful scraping of a woman’s uterus with a sharp instrument—sometimes do so without anesthesia. Women who fear criminal proceedings are discouraged from seeking necessary post-abortion care, often to the serious detriment of their health. Some women who have had abortions are sentenced to prison, in a further assault on their human rights."[35]

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."[36]

What to Get & Where to Get It

  • If you are pregnant and wish to obtain an abortion, one option is to seek an abortion outside Argentina. You may consider traveling to places like Uruguay, Guyana, Mexico City, or the United States, where you can legally obtain an abortion. However, you should note that, to get an abortion in Uruguay, you need to be an Uruguayan citizen or you need to have continuously lived in Uruguay for at least one year.[37]
  • You can potentially purchase the "abortion pill" through Women on Waves. Check out their website for details. If you can't access the website, it may be blocked in your country.
  • In Argentina, there is an abortion hotline for women who have unwanted pregnancies: Tel: (011) 156 664 7070
  • There is a Sexual Health Helpline that you can consult for information: Tel: 0800-222-3444 (toll-free)
  • There are many organizations that provide help/resources/information to women who are seeking abortion services in Argentina. You can visit the "Additional Resources" section at the bottom of this page, where we list some of them. We have also listed some below:
    • REDAAS: "REDAAS is a network of health and legal professionals associated with public and community health services in Argentina. Our commitment is to accompany and assist women in situations of legal abortion, understanding it as part of our professional, ethical and legal duty. Our goal is to help remove institutional and political barriers to access safe and legal abortions, promote appropriate interpretation and application of the causes contemplated in the current regulations and build a community to share information, exchange experiences and offer a space of solidarity, encouragement and political support."
    • La Revuelta - Colectiva Feminista: "Through Socorro Rosa (SR), La Revuelta feminist activists (the socorristas) accompany and give women and other people capable of getting pregnant information about how to get a medical abortion (using pills). Women first contact us by telephone, calling to our public number. After that, we have a personal meeting with them where women get all the information they need in order to have a medical abortion. We also accompany and take care of them during the process of abortion. Besides, the socorristas help women obtain ILEs (Legal Termination of Pregnancies) in the public health system." You can call their hotline: 00 54 299 154 722 618. These services are free.
    • Latin American Consortium Against Unsafe Abortion: This is a regional organization that may have useful information.

Costs

  • There were reports of relatively "safe" abortions being performed for around 1500 pesos in 2007 -- and, while the prices have surely gone up since 2007, it's hard to verify the current prices.[38] However, some abortion providers supposedly charge 20,000-40,000 pesos as of 2015.
  • 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, & Crisis Support

Laws & Social Stigmas

What to Get & Where to Get It

  • Police & general emergencies (dial *31416 from a mobile phone): Call 101 and 911
  • Ambulance and Medical Emergencies: Call 107
  • Tourist Police: Call 0800-999-5000 / 0800-999-2838.
  • 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)
  • 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 Domestic Violence Guide from the Ministry of Justice and Human Rights.
  • La Revuelta - Colectiva Feminista: "La Revuelta activists assist women and girls who suffer gender-base violence through Socorro Violeta (SV). We generally meet with them personally and offer legal aid and a safe environment where we can talk about what would be best for them in that particular situation. In addition to these services, we give advice on comprehensive sex education and offer LGBTIQ+ people help and support in the claim for their rights.." You can call their hotline: 00 54 299 154 722 618. These services are free.

Costs

List of Additional Resources

  • Argentine Ministry of Health and Social Development
  • International Planned Parenthood Foundation - Argentina
  • Center for Reproductive Rights - Argentina
  • Equaldex Argentina: This website provides information about LGBTQ rights and laws in Argentina. Homosexuality and same-sex marriage are legal in Argentina. It is also legal to change gender. In some regions, there are laws that protect people against employment and housing discrimination. Conversion therapy is banned.
  • ELA - Equipo Latinoamericano de Justicia y Genero : "Our mission is to achieve gender equity through advocacy, networking and capacity development of political and social actors, in order to improve the social, political and economic situation of women. Founded in May 2003 in the City of Buenos Aires, ELA is integrated by an interdisciplinary team of specialists with a background in the State, Universities and Research Centers, International Organizations, legal practice and NGOs." Address: Tucumán 1581 - Floor 5 Dept. 10B . Telephones: 011-4371-2696 and 4371-2920. City of Buenos Aires Argentina. e-mail: ela@ela.org.ar
  • Asociacion Civil La Casa Del Encuentro: Focuses on women’s social networks. Lobbies for policies to combat all forms of violence, abuse and discrimination against women and children. Address: 1204 De, Rivadavia 3917, Buenos Aires, Argentina, Phone: +54 11 4982-2550
  • Ni Una Menos: Collective of feminist activists. Email: niunamenosoficial@gmail.com
  • Socorristas en Red: "Lifeguards in Red -feminists who aborted- (hereinafter SenR) is an articulation of collectives in Argentina. We give information -according to the protocols of the World Health Organization- and we accompany women and other people with gestational capacity who have decided to interrupt unviable pregnancies for that moment in their lives. To do it safely and carefully."
  • Campaña Nacional por el Derecho al Aborto Legal, Seguro y Gratuito: "Campaña Nacional por el Derecho al Aborto Legal, Seguro y Gratuito (The National Campaign for the Right to Legal, Safe and Free Abortion) is a broad and diverse federal alliance, which articulates and recovers part of the history of the struggles developed in our country in pursuit of the right to legal, safe and free abortion."
  • Transgender House - You can read this report from UNAIDS to learn more about Transgender House in Buenos Aires.

References

  1. Activists Keep Argentina’s Abortion Reform on the Agenda Despite Covid-19
  2. 2.0 2.1 Argentina's Senate approves historic bill to legalize abortion
  3. 3.0 3.1 CIA World Factbook: Argentina
  4. Global Oral Contraception Availability
  5. Free the Pill - Where on Earth? Map
  6. Trends in Contraceptive Use Worldwide 2015
  7. Argentina: Limits on Birth Control Threaten Human Rights
  8. Contraceptive Access: The State of Reproductive Healthcare Ahead of the Abortion Vote
  9. Argentina: Limits on Birth Control Threaten Human Rights
  10. How To Avoid Pregnancy Scares In Buenos Aires
  11. How To Avoid Pregnancy Scares In Buenos Aires
  12. All Of The Countries Where Birth Control Is Free
  13. Here's a map of the countries where the pill is fully subsidized (it includes Iran)
  14. 14.0 14.1 14.2 Argentina: EC Status and Availability
  15. Princeton EC Website
  16. Princeton EC Website
  17. ARGENTINA - REGULATIONS ON ENTRY, STAY AND RESIDENCE FOR PLHIV
  18. Thirty Years of the HIV/AIDS Epidemic in Argentina
  19. Getting Tested For HIV Just Got Easier In Argentina
  20. UNAIDS Country factsheets ARGENTINA, 2019
  21. UNAIDS Country Report - Argentina
  22. Mayors of Santiago and Buenos Aires pledge to accelerate the AIDS response in their cities
  23. Argentina: Human Papillomavirus and Related Cancers, Fact Sheet 2016
  24. PrEPWatch World Map
  25. Social inequality in Pap smear coverage: identifying under-users of cervical cancer screening in Argentina
  26. Argentina: Maternity Leave and Benefits
  27. Paid Paternity Leave Increased to Encourage Co-Parenting in Buenos Aires
  28. Argentina Decriminalizes Abortion in All Cases of Rape
  29. Abortion in Argentina
  30. Argentina’s Doctors Perform Half a Million Illegal Abortions a Year, But Legalization Still Seems Unlikely
  31. Rape victims struggle to get legal abortions in Argentina
  32. Abortion in Argentina
  33. Argentina’s Senate Narrowly Rejects Legalizing Abortion
  34. Argentina’s Doctors Perform Half a Million Illegal Abortions a Year, But Legalization Still Seems Unlikely
  35. Obstacles to the Right to Decide in Matters Concerning Abortion
  36. Abortion in Argentina: Unsafe and Unattainable
  37. How To Avoid Pregnancy Scares In Buenos Aires
  38. Abortion in Argentina: Fact and Fantasy