Gynecologists recommend getting a pap test on a routine basis to screen for changes of the cervix that may indicate cancer or pre-cancerous abnormalities. Your doctor will let you know how often you should schedule these wellness appointments. Try to avoid scheduling your pap test for the week of your period.

There is little preparation required, but your gynecologist will need you to avoid sexual intercourse for two days prior to the exam. You should also avoid using any vaginal products for the same time period. These include medications, douches, and creams. Avoid spray, powder, lubrication, and suppository products as well. If you do get your period before your exam, use sanitary pads instead of tampons for 48 hours prior. When you arrive at the clinic, don’t forget to visit the ladies’ room. A full bladder will make the exam more uncomfortable.

Women are invited to call Washington Surgi-Clinic at (202) 659-9403 to request an appointment. Pap tests are one of the many gynecology services we provide in Washington, D.C.

Few issues are quite as polarizing as a woman’s reproductive healthcare rights. In this featured video, renowned scientist Bill Nye urges viewers to learn about the science of reproduction in order to develop better informed views. In his opinion, abortion is a personal decision to be made by a woman with the guidance of her doctor.

Bill Nye also addresses the commonly held belief that life begins at fertilization. Actually, countless fertilized eggs are naturally passed out of women’s bodies, without ever attaching to the uterine lining.

Washington Surgi-Clinic is a respectful, compassionate place for women to receive reproductive healthcare services . Call (202) 659-9403 to schedule an appointment with a gynecologist if you’re thinking about getting an abortion near Washington, D.C.

Intrauterine devices (IUDs) are very small, slender medical implants that can be placed into the uterus to prevent unwanted pregnancies. The IUD is a birth control method that is becoming more commonly requested at gynecology clinics, but it isn’t necessarily the best choice for every woman. Talk to your gynecologist about your health history and preferences before making an informed decision. If you do choose to get an IUD, it will be non-surgically inserted by your gynecologist during a normal office visit.

What to Know Before You Go

Your gynecologist may give you some advice on preparing for the insertion . Know that it can be an uncomfortable process, and some women do experience pain. However, it only takes a few minutes to insert the IUD. To minimize your discomfort, you can take an over-the-counter pain reliever before your appointment. Your doctor might prescribe a medication intended to dilate the cervix, which can help make the procedure more comfortable and easier for you. Bring a sanitary pad to your appointment, as some bleeding can occur.

What to Expect During the Insertion

After you change into a gown, you’ll be asked to lie on the exam table and place your feet on the stirrups—exactly as though you’d be having a cervical cancer screening. A speculum is inserted, and then a special device is used to insert the IUD into your vagina, through the cervix, and into the uterus.

What to Do Afterward

It’s common to experience cramping, which can be fairly intense for some women. Although some women feel fine driving themselves home afterward, you might want to bring a friend with you, just in case. Rest at home with a heating pad for the remainder of the day. It’s normal to have some light bleeding or spotting for a few days afterward, so have a few extra sanitary pads on hand.

The IUD is one of many birth control methods available in Washington, D.C. At Washington Surgi-Clinic, our gynecologists take the time to thoroughly counsel each of our patients about their reproductive healthcare options. Request an appointment by calling our friendly office staff at (202) 659-9403.

One of the many choices women have for birth control is Depo-Provera, or the birth control shot. The shot is extremely effective and can be ideal for women who don’t wish to take a pill every day to prevent pregnancy. One factor that influences the effectiveness of Depo-Provera is how often you get the shot and if you stick to the schedule recommended by your gynecologist.

The impacts of a late shot depend on when your last shot was. Ideally, women should get a shot every 10 to 12 weeks. However, if you get your shot within 15 weeks of the previous one, you should still be protected. If you get your shot more than 15 weeks after your previous one, you will need to use an alternative form of birth control for one week after getting the shot. If you have intercourse more than 15 weeks after your last shot without protection, then you may wish to discuss emergency contraception with your gynecologist.

To schedule an appointment for Depo-Provera or to discuss birth control methods in Washington, D.C., make an appointment with Washington Surgi-Clinic today. To learn more about our women’s health services, including STD testing and pregnancy termination , call (202) 659-9403.