Sexual and reproductive health in Portugal

Portugal offers high-quality sexual and reproductive health services through its national health system (SNS) and private providers. Services include free contraception through SNS family planning clinics, comprehensive maternity care with prenatal and postnatal support, legal abortion up to 10 weeks (12 weeks in special circumstances), STI testing and treatment, cancer screenings (cervical, breast, ovarian), and LGBT+ inclusive healthcare. Private insurance and international providers supplement public services.

Luckily for expats planning on moving to Portugal, the country offers a high-quality healthcare system that makes sexual health services readily available for anyone. As a result, those looking to set up their new life there can rest assured that they will be in safe hands. That said, moving abroad comes with its challenges, and learning how to handle the various healthcare services on offer is certainly one of them.

For comprehensive expat health resources and community connections, visit ExpatsList.org.

Attitudes Towards Sex and Sexuality in Portugal

While Portugal is generally a fairly conservative nation, women tend to be quite upfront and honest about sex, despite their prudent, Catholic upbringing. Given that they are traditionally raised with strong family values and religious influence, Portuguese society has evolved significantly regarding sexual health openness.

Portugal legalized same-sex marriage in 2010 and has strong anti-discrimination protections for LGBT+ individuals. Urban areas like Lisbon and Porto demonstrate progressive attitudes toward sexuality and gender identity. However, rural and older generations may hold more traditional views. Overall, sexual health services are accessible without judgment, and healthcare providers treat patients professionally regardless of orientation or identity.

Accessing Sexual Health Services in Portugal

Portugal's national health system (Serviço Nacional de Saúde - SNS) provides sexual and reproductive health services through family planning clinics (centros de saúde) and hospitals. Most services are free or heavily subsidized for residents registered with SNS. Private clinics and hospitals offer additional options with shorter wait times and more appointment flexibility.

To access SNS services, register at your local health center using your residence permit, tax identification number (NIF), and proof of address. You'll receive a user number (número de utente) allowing you to book appointments and access services. Emergency sexual health needs can be addressed at hospital emergency departments (urgências).

Insurance for Sexual and Reproductive Healthcare

SNS covers most sexual and reproductive health services for registered residents. However, some prefer private insurance for faster access and more choice. International health insurance providers like Cigna Global, Allianz Care, and AXA offer policies covering gynecological care, maternity, contraception, and sexual health services in Portugal.

Private Portuguese insurance companies (Médis, Multicare, Advance Care) provide supplementary coverage reducing wait times and expanding provider choice. Policies typically cost €30-100 monthly depending on coverage level, age, and pre-existing conditions.

Browse more health and wellness resources on our blog page.

Contraception in Portugal

Portugal offers comprehensive contraception access. SNS family planning clinics provide free contraception including birth control pills, IUDs, contraceptive implants, patches, and condoms. Consultations with healthcare professionals help determine the most suitable method.

Pharmacies sell condoms without prescription. Birth control pills require prescriptions from doctors or family planning clinics. Emergency contraception (morning-after pill) is available without prescription at pharmacies for women over 18. It's most effective within 72 hours of unprotected intercourse but can work up to 120 hours depending on the type.

Pregnancy and Childbirth in Portugal

Portugal provides comprehensive maternity care through SNS. Prenatal care includes regular checkups, ultrasounds, blood tests, and childbirth preparation classes. Public hospitals offer delivery services free for SNS-registered residents. Private hospitals provide alternative options with private rooms and additional comfort features.

Maternity leave in Portugal allows 120-150 days of paid leave, shared between parents. Mothers must take at least 6 weeks after birth. Fathers receive 28 days of mandatory and optional paternity leave. These protections apply to both employed and self-employed individuals registered with social security.

Abortion in Portugal

Abortion has been legal in Portugal since 2007 up to 10 weeks of pregnancy upon the woman's request. Between 10-12 weeks, abortion is permitted in cases of rape. Up to 24 weeks, abortion is allowed for fetal malformation or risk to the woman's physical or mental health. Beyond 24 weeks, abortion is permitted only when the fetus is unviable or the woman's life is at risk.

SNS provides abortion services free at public hospitals and approved clinics. The procedure requires pre-abortion counseling (which can be waived) and a 3-day reflection period. Private clinics also offer abortion services with shorter wait times, typically costing €400-800.

STIs and STDs in Portugal

SNS sexual health clinics (consultas de doenças sexualmente transmissíveis) provide free STI testing and treatment. Testing covers HIV, syphilis, gonorrhea, chlamydia, hepatitis B and C, and HPV. Results typically take 1-2 weeks, though rapid HIV tests provide results within minutes.

Many clinics offer anonymous testing, removing barriers for those concerned about privacy. Treatment for diagnosed STIs is provided free through SNS or at subsidized rates. Private clinics offer faster testing with results often available within 24-48 hours, costing €50-200 depending on tests requested.

Cancer Screenings in Portugal

SNS provides free cancer screenings for women. Cervical cancer screening (Pap smear) is recommended every 3 years for women aged 25-60. Breast cancer screening (mammogram) is offered every 2 years for women aged 50-69. Ovarian cancer screening isn't routine but may be recommended for women with family history or genetic risk factors.

Private healthcare providers offer comprehensive screening packages, often including additional tests beyond standard SNS protocols. These cost €100-300 depending on the scope.

LGBT+ Sexual Health in Portugal

Portugal has strong LGBT+ protections and inclusive healthcare. Sexual health services treat LGBT+ individuals without discrimination. Specialized clinics in Lisbon and Porto focus on LGBT+ health, offering tailored sexual health services, HIV prevention including PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis), hormone therapy for transgender individuals, and mental health support.

Organizations like GAT (Grupo de Ativistas em Tratamentos) provide LGBT+-specific sexual health resources, HIV support, and community programs throughout Portugal.

To connect with the expat community or list your business, visit ExpatsList.org.