After having a baby, your birth control needs could change compared to before your pregnancy. Discuss the birth control methods that could work for you with your gynecologist, so you can prevent an unwanted pregnancy.

Watch this video to learn more about your birth control options after giving birth. If you are breastfeeding, your gynecologist may recommend progesterone-only options if you choose to use a hormonal method, like a birth control pill or shot. If you used a diaphragm before pregnancy, it will need to be refitted by your gynecologist after birth.

Washington Surgi-Clinic is committed to helping every woman make the right decisions about their sexual health with comprehensive gynecology services, including pregnancy termination. To schedule an appointment with a gynecologist in Washington, D.C., please call (202) 659-9403.

When men choose to be active supporters of their partners before and after a pregnancy termination, there are many things they can do to be helpful. One of the best things men can do is be proactive about asking their partners about the kind of support they need and then following through on providing it. These tips can also help you be supportive before and after an abortion .

Provide Practical Support

There are many logistical things that can become issues before and after a pregnancy termination, so find out from your partner how you can help. Discuss the costs of the termination and how you can help share some of the financial burden. Make plans for dealing with things like household responsibilities as your partner recovers. Your partner will also need a ride to and from the clinic, perhaps on more than one occasion, so make plans to adjust your work schedule accordingly so you can be there. There may be concerns your partner has about juggling responsibilities as she goes through the abortion process that may not be obvious to you, so ask her what kind of help she needs.

Provide Emotional Support

No matter how confident you feel about your decision to terminate a pregnancy, it is natural to experience some emotional upheaval after the event. Some people feel guilty that they feel relieved, and others may feel sadness, even if they believe they made the right choice. Ask your partner to discuss her feelings openly. Often, simply listening and letting your partner know you’re always there to provide support is enough.

Care for Yourself

Men also experience a range of emotions after a pregnancy termination, so remember to look after your own needs as well. If you don’t, you won’t be able to be as supportive as you want for your partner. Sometimes, it can be helpful to have someone other than your partner to discuss your feelings with, especially if your partner is very emotional about the decision.

If you are facing an unwanted pregnancy, Washington Surgi-Clinic is here to help. Contact us today at (202) 659-9403 to find out more about pregnancy termination in Washington, D.C. and to schedule a consultation.

If your birth control method failed or if you had intercourse without protection, emergency contraception could help to prevent an unwanted pregnancy. Some methods of emergency contraception are available over-the-counter, and some may need to be prescribed by your gynecologist . Here are the facts you need to know.

What is emergency contraception?

Emergency contraception is contraception that is used to prevent pregnancy after intercourse has already occurred, as opposed to other birth control methods that are used before intercourse. The amount of time a woman has to take emergency contraception after intercourse varies depending on the method chosen. It is important to note that emergency contraception is not the same thing as the abortion pill. It will not end or harm an existing pregnancy. Instead, it makes it difficult for a pregnancy to occur.

What types of emergency contraception are available?

Most emergency contraception comes in pill form. Plan B, One-Step, and Next Choice are all pills that contain the hormone levonorgestrel. Anyone over the age of 17 can get these pills without a prescription. Younger women need a prescription in most states. Ella is another emergency contraceptive pill. It contains ulipristal acetate and must be prescribed by a gynecologist. Copper IUDs can also be used as emergency contraception and must be placed by a gynecologist. In some cases, taking a higher dose of birth control pills can work as an emergency contraceptive, but always do so under the guidance of your gynecologist.

When should I take an emergency contraceptive?

Take an emergency contraceptive as soon as you can after unprotected sex. It is possible for the contraceptives to work for up to five days after intercourse, but the longer you wait, the less effective they become. Keep in mind that emergency contraceptives do not protect against sexually transmitted diseases. Talk to your gynecologist about STD testing if you have had unprotected sex.

Washington Surgi-Clinic can help you navigate decisions about emergency contraception and STD testing after unprotected intercourse. To make an appointment to find out more about birth control methods in Washington, D.C., please call (202) 659-9403.