Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Women's Health
Pregnant women should receive specialised advice before travelling. The ideal time to
travel is between 16 and 28 weeks, when the risk of pregnancy-related problems is at its
lowest and pregnant women generally feel their best. During the first trimester there is a
risk of miscarriage and in the third trimester complications - such as premature labour
and high blood pressure - are possible. It's wise to travel with a companion. Always carry
a list of quality medical facilities available at your destination and ensure that you continue
your standard antenatal care at these facilities. Avoid rural travel in areas with poor trans-
portation and medical facilities. Most of all, ensure that your travel insurance covers all
pregnancy-related possibilities, including premature labour.
Malaria is a high-risk disease in pregnancy. WHO recommends that pregnant women
do
not
travel to areas with Chloroquine-resistant malaria. None of the more effective anti-
malarial drugs are completely safe in pregnancy.
Traveller's diarrhoea can quickly lead to dehydration and result in inadequate blood
flow to the placenta. Many of the drugs used to treat various diarrhoea bugs are not re-
commended in pregnancy. Azithromycin is considered safe.
Birth-control options may be limited, so bring adequate supplies of your own form of
contraception. Heat, humidity and antibiotics can all contribute to thrush. Treatment is with
antifungal creams and pessaries such as Clotrimazole. A practical alternative is a single
tablet of Fluconazole (Diflucan). Urinary tract infections can be precipitated by dehydra-
tion or long bus journeys without toilet stops; bring suitable antibiotics.
Traditional Medicine
Throughout Myanmar traditional medical systems are widely practised. Folk remedies
should be avoided, as they often involve rather dubious procedures with potential com-
plications. In comparison, traditional healing systems such as Chinese medicine are well
respected, and aspects of them are being increasingly used by Western medical practi-
tioners.
All traditional Asian medical systems identify a vital life force, and see blockage or im-
balance as causing disease. Techniques such as herbal medicines, massage and acu-
puncture are used to bring this vital force back into balance or to maintain balance. These
therapies are best used for treating chronic fatigue, arthritis, irritable bowel syndrome,
skin conditions and other chronic ailments. Don't use traditional medicines to treat serious
acute infections, such as malaria.
Be aware that 'natural' doesn't always mean 'safe', and there can be drug interactions
between herbal medicines and Western medicines. If you are using both systems ensure
that you inform both practitioners what the other has prescribed.
