Although gynecologists perform safe, legal abortions every day in the U.S., there are still plenty of myths regarding these procedures. Under U.S. law, women have the right to decide to terminate a pregnancy. Unfortunately, anti-abortion advocates and those who are ignorant of the procedure have made many claims that can be damaging to these legal rights. If you have any questions about pregnancy termination, you should feel free to discuss them with a gynecologist.

Myth: Abortions Are Dangerous for Women

Abortions are actually among the safest types of procedures a woman can have. The risks of serious complications and fatalities are extremely low. Women are more likely to suffer from complications of labor and birth than they are to experience medical problems with an abortion.

Myth: Abortions Are Detrimental to Psychological Health

One of the most common myths about this procedure is that women who have abortions will experience some form of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or other mental health challenges. In fact, scientific evidence does not support this idea. Gynecologists have long observed that having an abortion is not more mentally damaging than placing a child for adoption or raising an unwanted child.

Myth: Abortions Are Cruel Toward the Fetus

Researchers tend to agree that the fetus is incapable of feeling pain during the first and second trimesters. The vast majority of all abortions are performed during this time period.

Myth: Abortions Are a Sign of Poor Character

Unfortunately, many people condemn women who have abortions as having poor moral character. It’s a common myth that all women who have this procedure failed to use birth control properly. In fact, the majority of women who choose pregnancy termination did use birth control; however, birth control can sometimes fail and lead to unintended pregnancies. Additionally, many women choose pregnancy termination after surviving rape.

If you are considering having an abortion, Washington Surgi-Clinic invites you to schedule a consultation with one of our friendly gynecologists. Our women’s health clinic in Washington, D.C. provides non-surgical and surgical abortions that are safe, legal, and affordable. You can reach our abortion clinic by calling (202) 683-7336 if you wish to learn more about your pregnancy termination options.

Parental consent and notification laws for abortion vary from state to state. In some states, the law requires that all girls under the age of 18 obtain permission from at least one parent to obtain an abortion. In other states, girls can visit a women’s clinic for an abortion without the need for permission if they are the victims of abuse or neglect. Girls might also bypass the permission requirement by seeking consent from a judge.

For example, Virginia law requires that at least one parent give permission for an abortion; however, a judge may waive this requirement. In Maryland, one parent must be told of the decision to have an abortion, yet permission is not needed. A judge may also waive the notification requirement. In Washington, D.C., girls may obtain an abortion legally, without the need for any sort of parental involvement. When a patient visits a women’s clinic, she can rest assured that the gynecologist will protect her confidentiality and uphold the law.

The gynecologists of Washington Surgi-Clinic in Washington, D.C. are firmly committed to upholding the highest standards of patient confidentiality. Girls and women throughout the area are welcome to contact our women’s clinic at (202) 683-7336 to schedule a visit.

Every woman is different, especially when it comes to pregnancy. Some women experience the early signs of pregnancy even before noticing a missed period. Other women may not detect anything different until they visit a gynecologist because of menstrual delay. Many of the early signs of pregnancy, such as headaches and lower back pain, can mimic other health issues. If you have been sexually active, it’s best to err on the side of caution and take a pregnancy test or visit a local women’s clinic . Gynecologists often see women who experience the following symptoms.

Nausea

Early on in your pregnancy, your hormone levels will change dramatically . This leads to symptoms such as morning sickness. Many women find that they can relieve nausea and vomiting in the morning by nibbling on a few plain crackers. Gynecologists recommend keeping a package of crackers on the bedside table and eating a few before getting out of bed. Smaller, more frequent meals may also alleviate nausea.

Odor Sensitivity

Nausea may also be triggered by a heightened sensitivity to odors. Many women become hypersensitive to odors that they previously found unpleasant, in addition to previously pleasing odors such as perfume.

Food Aversions

Food aversions are an easily recognizable sign of pregnancy. It’s quite common for women to gag or feel nauseous when exposed to strong cooking odors. For some women, simply opening the refrigerator is enough to bring about a gag reflex. If your food aversions are intense, you may wish to ask your partner to cook while you step outside for some fresh air. Choosing bland foods may also help.

Fatigue

As early as the first week after becoming pregnant, excessive, unexplained fatigue may set in. Your gynecologist is likely to recommend getting more rest, rather than increasing your caffeine intake.

If you’re not ready to have children, you can evaluate your abortion options with the help of a caring gynecologist. Washington Surgi-Clinic provides safe, affordable abortions to women in Washington D.C., and throughout Maryland and Virginia. You can connect with a gynecologist by calling (202) 683-7336 or by visiting our website.

There are many strains of the human papilloma virus (HPV), including those that cause cervical cancer. HPV has also been linked to throat and anal cancer, in addition to penile cancer in uncircumcised males. The HPV vaccine can prevent cancer caused by the HPV virus in both men and women. For the best possible protection, gynecologists recommend vaccinating boys and girls as preteens, before they are sexually active.

However, individuals who are older can also benefit from this vaccination, as you’ll learn by watching this video. In fact, doctors recommend the vaccine up to the age of 26. The expert in this video explains why getting the vaccine even after HPV exposure may be helpful.

For personalized and affordable gynecologic care in the Maryland and Virginia area, call Washington Surgi-Clinic at (202) 683-7336. Our women’s clinic provides a full range of gynecology services, including HPV treatment.