Regular STD testing and HIV testing is a crucial part of maintaining your gynecological and overall health. If you’re sexually active or are at high risk for HIV, you should visit a gynecologist for HIV testing at least once per year, possibly more if you are at high risk. Here is a look at some important facts about HIV testing.

When You Should Get Tested

Any woman who is sexually active or at high risk for HIV should visit a gynecologist for HIV testing. If your test is negative, your gynecologist can let you know how often you should come back for HIV testing. If you’re pregnant, it’s even more important that you undergo STD testing, HIV testing, and prenatal gynecology services. Your gynecologist will maintain strict patient confidentiality throughout the HIV testing process.

Who’s at High Risk

Women who are at a higher risk for contracting HIV will need to undergo HIV testing more frequently. You are at higher risk if you are having unprotected sex with more than one male partner, if you have injected drugs in the past or are doing so currently, if you are currently having sex with or have had sex in the past with someone who has had multiple partners or who has injected drugs, if you have a current STD, or if you received a blood transfusion between 1978 and 1985. Your gynecologist can advise you as to how often you will need HIV testing.

HIV Testing Procedures

Your gynecologist can inform you as to your HIV testing options. The most commonly used test is the enzyme immunoassay test, which provides results in one day to one or two weeks. Some gynecologists use a rapid test, which provides results within 20 minutes.

If you’re in need of HIV testing near Washington, DC , come see us at Washington Surgi-Clinic. Our experienced and compassionate gynecologists can provide a wide range of affordable gynecology services, including STD testing, STD treatment, pap smears, birth control methods, and pregnancy termination. To learn more about our gynecology services, call us today at (202) 659-9403.

As soon as you become sexually active, you should visit a gynecologist to discuss birth control methods, and receive a pap smear and STD testing. The birth control method that you choose will depend upon your health, medical history, lifestyle, and personal preferences. Here is a look at the most common birth control methods recommended by gynecologists.

Birth Control Pills

Birth control pills are available as a combination pill, progestin-only pill, or extended-cycle pill. The combination birth control pill contains estrogen and progestin, is 99% effective at preventing pregnancy, and must be taken around the same time every day. The progestin-only pill doesn’t contain estrogen. Gynecologists recommend it for women who have migraines with aura, diabetes, heart disease, or who smoke or are at risk for blood clots. The extended-cycle pill allows you to only have a period every three months.

Vaginal Rings, IUDs, and Implants

If you don’t want to have to remember to take a daily birth control pill, you can opt for a vaginal ring, IUD, implant, patch, or birth control shot. Vaginal rings are placed in the vagina for three weeks, and then removed on week four to stimulate your period. IUDs, or intrauterine devices, are surgically implanted in the uterus to prevent sperm from reaching an egg. Implants are placed under the skin of your upper arm, and can last up to three years.

The Morning After Pill

The morning after pill, also known as emergency contraception or Plan B, is not a typical birth control method. It is only recommended for occasional use, if your regular birth control method failed. It must be taken within 72 hours of unprotected sex, and has a 95% success rate if taken within 24 hours.

If you’re interested in learning more about available birth control methods in Washington, DC, come see us at Washington Surgi-Clinic . When you make an appointment with one of our caring gynecologists, you can receive affordable gynecological services in a safe, confidential, comforting environment. To make an appointment with a gynecologist, call us today at (202) 659-9403.