If you feel uncomfortable discussing sexual relations and birth control pills with your parents, you do not need to do so. Doctors, including gynecologists, are bound to a code of confidentiality. That means they will not inform your parents that you scheduled an appointment at a women’s health clinic, nor will they tell them that you’re starting to take birth control pills. Furthermore, you do not need to obtain the permission of your parents or guardian to take the pill.

During your appointment with the gynecologist, you’ll discuss your medical history and learn about your birth control options. Your gynecologist will ask you if you’re already sexually active; it’s important to be honest. If you’ve already had intercourse, your gynecologist may recommend an exam and testing for sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). Remember that taking the pill does not protect you from STDs; you’ll still need to use a condom.

At Washington Surgi-Clinic, our friendly gynecologists uphold the strictest standards of confidentiality for all of our patients. Young women throughout Maryland and Virginia can make an appointment to discuss birth control by calling (202) 659-9403.

Women often confuse pelvic exams and pap smears as being the same procedure. However, they are two distinct wellness services. During a pelvic exam, the gynecologist examines the external genitalia and inserts a speculum into the vagina. The speculum enables the examination of the cervix. Then, the physician swabs the cervix to collect cells, which are examined in a lab. The pap smear is a screening tool, rather than a diagnostic test, to check for the presence of abnormal cells.

You can learn more about pelvic exams and pap smears by watching this video. This gynecologist discusses what will happen if abnormal cells and HPV infection are present, and what a physician may recommend if abnormal cells are present without an HPV infection.

Washington Surgi-Clinic is a fully equipped gynecology practice that provides women of the Maryland and Virginia areas with pap smears and a range of other women’s healthcare services . To schedule an affordable pap smear, call our office at (202) 659-9403.

If you’re making summer travel plans, birth control may be the last thing on your mind. In fact, many women forget to take the pill or use another method of birth control while on vacation, often because of jet lag or confusion over time zone differences. You can prevent an unintentional pregnancy by taking a few simple steps to maintain your birth control schedule. First, make an appointment with a gynecologist at a women’s clinic to discuss taking birth control while on vacation.

Visiting Your Gynecologist

If you have any confusion over how to maintain your birth control schedule while traveling, your gynecologist can help you. You’ll also need to visit your gynecologist if you’re taking the birth control injection, Depo-Provera, and need a shot before you depart. If you’re taking the pill, make sure you have enough to take with you.

Traveling with Birth Control

Keep your birth control pills in their original container while traveling. Pack them in your carry-on bag if you plan to fly, rather than in your checked baggage. Doing so will help you maintain your schedule even if your checked baggage is lost. While out sightseeing, keep your pills in your handbag to enable you to take one on time, rather than having to rush back to the hotel.

Knowing When to Take the Pill

Even though you’re traveling between time zones, your body is still accustomed to taking the pill at your usual time. Take the pill at the normal time, rather than the time indicated in your new time zone. For example, if you usually take the pill at 6 p.m. and your new time zone is three hours behind, you should take the pill at 3 p.m. Remind yourself to take the pill by setting an alarm.

Women throughout Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Virginia will find confidential, affordable women’s healthcare services at Washington Surgi-Clinic. Our gynecologists will be happy to help you learn about your birth control options and how to maintain your schedule while you’re travelling this summer. Give us a call today at (202) 659-9403 or visit us online to view the services available at our women’s clinic.