Gynecology in Cambodia

Gynecology is the medical practice that focuses on the health of the female reproductive system, including the vagina, uterus, and ovaries. Doctors who specialize in this field are called gynecologists. They deal with a range of conditions, such as:

• Issues relating to menstruation, menopause, pregnancy, and fertility
• Family planning, including sterilization, contraception, and pregnancy termination
• Urinary and fecal incontinence
• Polycystic ovary syndrome
• Sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
• Problems with tissue that support the pelvic organs, including muscles and ligaments
• Benign conditions of the reproductive tract, such as fibroids, breast disorders, ovarian cysts, as well as vulvar and vaginal ulcers
• Premalignant conditions, such as cervical dysplasia and endometrial hyperplasia
• Cancers of the breasts and reproductive tract, as well as pregnancy-related tumors
• Endometriosis, which is a chronic condition affecting the reproductive system
• Congenital abnormalities of the female reproductive tract
• Pelvic inflammatory disease
• Emergency care relating to gynecology
• Sexual dysfunction
• Sexuality, including health issues that relates to same-sex relationships.

Gynecologists are trained to carry out certain diagnostic and surgical procedures, including:

• Pap smear tests
• Colposcopy
• Ultrasound scanning
• Endometrial biopsy
• Hysteroscopy
• Diagnostic laparoscopy
• Hysterectomy
• Dilation and curettage
• Oophorectomy
• Tubal ligation
• Exploratory laparotomy
• Appendectomy
• Surgical treatments for urinary incontinence, such as cystoscopy and sub-urethral slings
• Surgical treatments for pelvic organ prolapse, such as rectocele and cystocele
• Cervical excision procedures, such as cryosurgery.

How Long Should I Stay in Cambodia?

Your length of stay varies depending on the procedure you underwent. In general, you should be able to leave the hospital or clinic on the same day for diagnostic procedures, and stay in Cambodia for around 2 to 7 days to wait for the results. For surgical procedures, you may need to stay in the hospital for about 2 to 5 days and stay in Cambodia for 7 to 14 days. You will attend scheduled checkups where your gynecologist checks your condition and, if necessary, remove any stitches.

What's the Expected Recovery Time?

After diagnostic procedures, you may be advised to rest for the remainder of the day before resuming your normal activities, including work the next day. After a surgical procedure, you may need to wait around four to six weeks until you return to work and do strenuous activities.

What Aftercare is Required?

You will have to adopt healthy lifestyle habits, such as eating a healthy diet and exercise regularly (as recommended by your doctor), to maintain your health and prevent any issues in the future. After surgery for a serious illness, you may feel very emotional and it is recommended that you seek support if this happens. You also need to attend regular checkups, typically once a year.

What's the Success Rate?

The field of gynecology continues to advance each year and gynecologists now have more information and a deeper understanding of the female reproductive system. This means that the success rate is now higher than it used to be. However, all procedures carry some risks. In gynecology procedures, the risks include infection, tearing or damage to the cervix, pelvic inflammatory disease, damage to nearby organs, chronic pain, and vaginal prolapse.

Are there Alternatives?

Seeing a gynecologist is crucial if you experience any problems with your reproductive system. Therefore, there is no alternative to seeing a gynecologist. If your conditions are found to be caused by other diseases unrelated to the reproductive system, your gynecologist will refer you or work together with the relevant specialist.

Gynecology in and around Cambodia

Introduction

Perched in the heart of Southeast Asia, nestled between Thailand and Vietnam, lies Cambodia — a dynamic blend of ancient and contemporary worlds that makes for an intriguing adventure. Dominating its list of attractions is the globally-renowned Angkor Wat, embroidered by lush jungles. 

It is the soul of Cambodia — its vibrant culture, warm inhabitants, profound historical heritage, stunning coastlines, delightful cuisine, and spirited nightlife — that gives this nation its unique charm. Each element, individually fascinating and collectively harmonious, weaves a magical tapestry that is Cambodia.

Over recent years, Cambodia has strategically bolstered its healthcare infrastructure, aiming to appeal to a global patient community. In this endeavor, the country has witnessed several of its hospitals forging partnerships with institutions from close-by countries, with Thailand being a significant partner.

These strategic alliances have been key in establishing state-of-the-art healthcare facilities across Cambodia. These healthcare establishments strive to cater to a diverse array of medical needs, ensuring the delivery of world-class, professional care that meets, if not surpasses, internationally accepted standards.

Cambodia is relentlessly driving efforts to enhance its healthcare sector, with one main goal - to give patients access to top-notch medical care at costs significantly lower than those in other Southeast Asian nations, Singapore being a prime example.

This strategic approach is geared towards attracting patients from regions like Laos, Taiwan, and China. The essence of this approach is to establish Cambodia as a major healthcare destination that offers high-quality medical services, all within a budget-friendly framework that doesn’t strain patients' finances.

Popular Cities and Regions in Cambodia

Phnom Penh is the capital of Cambodia, as well as the main medical tourism destination in the country. Once the ‘Pearl of Asia,’ this bustling city is now filled with bustling bars, historical architecture, vibrant café culture, a world-class food scene, and a glimmering Royal Palace.

Tourists venturing into Cambodia are invited to traverse the myriad attractions this enchanting nation has to offer. A must-visit is the National Museum of Cambodia which houses the country's extensive cultural history and art. For those who seek a deeper insight into Cambodia's past, the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum provides a poignant yet important glimpse into the darker chapters of its history. In addition, the Royal Palace stands as a testament to Cambodia's architectural grandeur, drawing admiration from visitors across the globe. Another gem to explore in Phnom Penh is the Silver Pagoda, a unique blend of tranquility and exquisite craftsmanship, making for an unforgettable experience.

Moving beyond the capital city of Phnom Penh, Siem Reap emerges as another popular destination in the Cambodian travel circuit. This city, bustling with energy and soaked in history, captures the diverse ethos of Cambodia in its vibrant art, architecture, and local life. Inclusion of Siem Reap in any Cambodian itinerary lends an additional layer of cultural depth, making the exploration of this intriguing nation an even more enticing proposition. As such, whether it's diving into the past or experiencing the dynamic present, Cambodia offers a varied palette of experiences to delve into.

It’s where the fascinating, UNESCO-listed Angkor Wat is located. Aside from Angkor Wat, Siem Reap also offers other attractions, such as the Angkor Silk Farm, Wat Bo, War Museum, and Senteurs d’Angkor Botanic Garden. Those who want to relax on a beach should visit Sihanoukville. It was once a quiet beach town, but now it has become a modern up-and-coming holiday destination. 

Transport in Cambodia

Phnom Penh International Airport stands as the largest and most bustling airport in Cambodia. Acting as a critical transportation nexus, it facilitates both domestic and international air travel. The airport offers numerous flight connections to various cities across Asia, making it a convenient choice for international tourists. Besides being a gateway into Cambodia, it also serves as a starting point for internal travel.

For tourists looking to cover various parts within the country swiftly, opting for domestic flights is a time-efficient choice. These flights are well-linked, providing easy access to different parts of this captivating country. Despite being the fastest mode of travel, they maintain reasonable fares, ensuring that the journey is equally enjoyable as the destination.

As one navigates within the cities, there is a disparity between the modes of transportation used for intra-city and inter-city travel. While trains and buses are the preferred options for traveling between different cities due to their affordability, city-based transportation adopts a different palette altogether. For daily city commutes and quick visits to local sights, taxis, tuk-tuks, and motorbikes are the most viable options. They're not only readily available but also allow for an intimate view of Cambodian city life. This dynamic and efficient transportation network significantly enhances the convenience of exploring Cambodia's stunning expanse.

Visas in Cambodia

• Citizens of 9 countries, including Laos and Singapore, can visit and stay in Cambodia for up to 30 days without a visa.
• Citizens of most other countries can apply for a visa on arrival or eVisa.
• All visitors must have a passport valid for at least six months beyond their intended date of departure from Cambodia.

Visa on arrival

• A visa on arrival can be obtained at any of the following Cambodian airports: Phnom Penh International Airport (PNH), Siem Reap International Airport (REP), and Sihanoukville International Airport (KOS).
• The visa on arrival fee is USD 30.
• Visitors who obtain a visa on arrival must have a valid passport and two passport-size photos.

eVisa

• An eVisa can be obtained online at the website of the Cambodian government.
• The eVisa fee is USD 35.
• Visitors who obtain an eVisa must have a valid passport and a digital photo.

Weather in Cambodia

Cambodia is blessed with a warm climate throughout the year, making it a destination for all seasons with temperatures seldom falling below 20°C. Cambodian weather is generally categorized into two primary seasons: wet and dry. The wet season, spanning from May to October, is marked by episodic showers during daytime hours, adding to the country's tropical charm.

The dry season, commencing from November and extending up to April, is typified by agreeable and sunny weather conditions, making it an ideal time for travel and exploration. However, it is worth noting that during the peak of the dry season, specifically in March, temperatures can climb up to a sweltering 35°C. Despite the somewhat extreme conditions, the resplendent beauty of the country remains undeterred, with Cambodia promising a riveting experience regardless of the season.

Additional Info

1. Local Currency: Cambodian riel (KHR) is the official currency and 1 USD converts to approx. 4,161.63 KHR. However, USD is widely accepted.
2. Money & Payments: ATMs are widely available and sometimes dispense US dollars. Credit cards are accepted in major cities. Tipping is expected and appreciated.
3. Local Language: The official and mainly spoken language is Khmer. Some people also speak Vietnamese and Chinese. English is mostly used in tourist areas and major cities. 
4. Local Culture and Religion: About 97% of the population follows Theravada Buddhism. Islam, Christianity, and tribal animism make up the remaining 3%.
5. Public Holidays:  Victory over Genocide Day, Khmer New Year, King’s Birthday, Day of Remembrance, and Independence Day are some of the public holidays celebrated in Cambodia.