Abortion is a safe procedure for women who become unexpectedly pregnant and wish to terminate the pregnancy. The process of getting an abortion can vary from woman to woman. Treatment depends on the progression of the pregnancy and personal preferences of the patient. Any existing medical conditions may also affect the type of abortion that a patient can receive. If you are facing an unplanned pregnancy, the following information on first and second trimester terminations can help you better understand your options.

Chemical Abortions

Chemical abortions are available only to women who are still within their first trimester of pregnancy. The patient is given oral drugs to induce the termination of the pregnancy . The result is cramping and bleeding similar to what a woman might experience during a miscarriage. Because chemical abortions are performed only during the first half of the first trimester, women seeking this procedure should contact a women’s clinic as soon as they learn they are pregnant.

Surgical Abortions

Women in both their first or second trimesters of pregnancy may be candidates for surgical abortions. During the first trimester, surgical abortion is referred to as dilatation and curettage. This procedure involves the termination of pregnancy through suction. Once a woman has entered her second trimester, a surgical abortion is called dilatation and evacuation. Surgeons who perform these procedures place a high priority on patient safety and comfort. Women may choose from several different sedative options to ensure their complete ease while undergoing a surgical abortion.

Patient Counseling

An abortion requires more than safe surgical practices. It also involves looking after a patient’s emotional wellbeing. Both prior to an abortion and after the procedure, patients can express their concerns and questions with qualified counselors. When you undergo an abortion, you can rest assured that you will be in the company of an understanding and supportive medical staff.

Would you like to speak to someone about your abortion options? Call (202) 659-9403 to schedule a consultation at Washington Surgi-Clinic . Our Washington, D.C. women’s clinic is here to help you make the right decision for your health, future, and reproductive needs.

Could you be at risk for cervical cancer? This video animation illustrates how HPV can increase the chances of getting this disease.

More than 30 different strains of HPV can be transmitted through sexual contact. If a woman becomes infected with this virus, her likelihood of suffering from cervical cancer may increase. The HPV strains that cause cervical cancer invade healthy tissues and alter their makeup. These mutated cells can then increase and multiply, eventually overtaking healthy cells and invading tissues of nearby organs. Because HPV may show no symptoms, gynecologists strongly urge all adult women to undergo regular Pap smear testing for the early detection of abnormal cervical cells.

Washington Surgi-Clinic offers gynecology services for women in the greater Washington, D.C. area. Call (202) 659-9403 for an appointment at our women’s clinic .

HPV is a particularly dangerous disease because few people know they have it. This unawareness may make those with HPV less likely to engage in safe sexual practices and seek treatment for their condition. These behaviors make it all the easier for HPV to be passed from one person to the next. Gynecologists stress the importance of regular Pap smears so that women with HPV can become aware of their health needs and more vigilant about protecting others from future transmission.

Transmission

The medical community has identified approximately 200 strains of HPV. Of these strains, about three-dozen can be passed from person to person through sexual contact . Healthcare providers urge all individuals who are sexually active to use condoms. Though condoms cannot provide complete protection against HPV transmission, they can significantly reduce the risk. Seeking a monogamous relationship with a partner free from HPV can also reduce the risk of infection. Some women may also be eligible for a special vaccination that prevents some strains of the virus.

Infection

Several HPV strains that are transmitted through sexual contact may develop into genital warts, which are an evident indication of the virus’s presence. Other strains contribute to cervical cancer. Cancer develops when HPV modifies the makeup of the cervical cells. These abnormal cells can grow without restraint and simultaneously kill healthy tissue. 

Complications

The HPV strains that cause cervical cancer may be present in the body for years before a woman is aware of her infection status. Only a Pap smear can provide an early indication of HPV and its impact on cervical tissue. Without regular visits to the gynecologist, unabated HPV and subsequent cervical cancer may be fatal.

When was the last time that you received a Pap smear? To get up-to-date on your health screenings, call Washington Surgi-Clinic at (202) 659-9403 for an appointment . Our women’s clinic provides a wide range of services, including Pap smears and HIV testing