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Everyone who moves abroad may (and probably will) face new challenges concerning your physical well-being, that due to stress your body goes through during the period of change or for unknown challenges that arise in different environment, such as viruses, weather-related illnesses, food ailments and others. As a woman living and working overseas you may face even more health concerns, something that your male counterparts do not. Check out essential healthcare tips for expat women on how to ensure your health and safety while living abroad.
Pre-departure health screen
Have a pre-departure check up with your doctor, ideally at least three months before you leave. Inform them you will be working abroad and ask about:
- vaccinations required
- prescriptions you may need
- access to medication in your destination country
Have your doctor write you a letter for any medication (including birth control) that you take, regularly, which you can provide to your doctor overseas.
Medication and birth control
Research the availability of medication and birth control in your destination country. Be aware that laws governing both can vary significantly by country. You may have access to medication in a pharmacy that you require a prescription for in another country. Birth control is not available to the same degree in countries around the world, so ensure you have a supply with a letter from your doctor or that you work with your doctor to find a suitable alternative.
Access to gynecological care
Before you go, consult your obstetrician regarding safe immunisations and travel medications. They can also recommend appropriate supplements and advise on precautions to avoid toxoplasmosis, a dangerous parasitic disease.
Find out about the local standards for gynecological care. Many expats take out international health insurance cover so they can access these services in a private facility.
If you plan to give birth abroad, a good idea would be to connect with other expatriate mothers who have given birth in that particular country or city for recommendations on hospitals with maternity wards.
Access to health screenings
Similarly, to gynecological care, plan cancer, hormone and STI screenings with the same frequency as you would at home. Finding a family doctor is likely to make accessing services like this much easier while you are living abroad.
Common ailments in heat
Many expats move to tropical climates, as a female expat you may be at increased risk of some common ailments including:
Prickly heat
Although this can be a problem for everyone, this nasty heat rash is particularly common if you take birth control. It is caused when sweat gets trapped under your skin, causing it to become inflamed and itchy. To ease the condition, stay out of the sun as much as possible, wear loose fitting clothes made from natural fibres like cotton and use calamine lotion to soothe your skin.
Yeast infections
more common in warm conditions, these infections are uncomfortable and annoying and although not dangerous, you can pass them on to a partner. To help prevent an infection:
- wear loose, breathable fabrics
- avoid food and drinks containing yeast or high levels of sugar
- take a probiotic to encourage good bacteria in your body
UTIs
The female urethra is much shorter than a male’s, putting women at greater risk of developing a urinary tract infection (UTI). It is thought that UTI’s are more prevalent in warmer weather because dehydration prevents bacteria from being flushed out. If you have moved to a warmer country, ensure you are drinking plenty of water to stay hydrated.
While many factors can increase the likelihood of a UTI, expat women need to be particularly cautious when traveling in regions with limited access to public toilets and poor hygiene standards.
Wellbeing
Research in the US showed that women are twice as likely as men to suffer from high levels of stress and/or anxiety. This is primarily attributed to extra emotional and household labour that women feel responsible for. This does not necessarily change for expat women. Although there may be pressure on you from work and home while living abroad, try to incorporate self-care into your life. Start with the basics like getting enough sleep, exercise, and downtime. If finding balance is something you are struggling with, see if your international health insurance policy has an Expat Assistance Programme that allows you access professional help.
Expat Hub
If you’re an expat working or studying abroad, take a look at our expat blogs where you can find all the information you need about expat life – including how to learn a language as an expat, 10 tips for a successful expat interview and more.
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Meet the author
Allianz
At Allianz Partners, Health, our blog is crafted by a team of experts dedicated to providing valuable insights and guidance on global health and insurance topics. With a focus on expatriates, international businesses, and individuals navigating healthcare abroad, our authors bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to every article.
We aim to deliver practical advice, industry updates, and actionable tips to help you make informed decisions, whether you're exploring international health insurance, managing employee health plans, or staying informed about the latest healthcare trends. Trust our blog to be your go-to resource for navigating the world of global health and insurance.
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