Could you be at risk for cervical cancer? This video animation illustrates how HPV can increase the chances of getting this disease.

More than 30 different strains of HPV can be transmitted through sexual contact. If a woman becomes infected with this virus, her likelihood of suffering from cervical cancer may increase. The HPV strains that cause cervical cancer invade healthy tissues and alter their makeup. These mutated cells can then increase and multiply, eventually overtaking healthy cells and invading tissues of nearby organs. Because HPV may show no symptoms, gynecologists strongly urge all adult women to undergo regular Pap smear testing for the early detection of abnormal cervical cells.

Washington Surgi-Clinic offers gynecology services for women in the greater Washington, D.C. area. Call (202) 659-9403 for an appointment at our women’s clinic .

HPV is a particularly dangerous disease because few people know they have it. This unawareness may make those with HPV less likely to engage in safe sexual practices and seek treatment for their condition. These behaviors make it all the easier for HPV to be passed from one person to the next. Gynecologists stress the importance of regular Pap smears so that women with HPV can become aware of their health needs and more vigilant about protecting others from future transmission.

Transmission

The medical community has identified approximately 200 strains of HPV. Of these strains, about three-dozen can be passed from person to person through sexual contact . Healthcare providers urge all individuals who are sexually active to use condoms. Though condoms cannot provide complete protection against HPV transmission, they can significantly reduce the risk. Seeking a monogamous relationship with a partner free from HPV can also reduce the risk of infection. Some women may also be eligible for a special vaccination that prevents some strains of the virus.

Infection

Several HPV strains that are transmitted through sexual contact may develop into genital warts, which are an evident indication of the virus’s presence. Other strains contribute to cervical cancer. Cancer develops when HPV modifies the makeup of the cervical cells. These abnormal cells can grow without restraint and simultaneously kill healthy tissue. 

Complications

The HPV strains that cause cervical cancer may be present in the body for years before a woman is aware of her infection status. Only a Pap smear can provide an early indication of HPV and its impact on cervical tissue. Without regular visits to the gynecologist, unabated HPV and subsequent cervical cancer may be fatal.

When was the last time that you received a Pap smear? To get up-to-date on your health screenings, call Washington Surgi-Clinic at (202) 659-9403 for an appointment . Our women’s clinic provides a wide range of services, including Pap smears and HIV testing

Gynecological exams are a normal part of a young woman’s health care routine. This type of exam assesses the health of your reproductive organs to check for problems or health conditions that need to be addressed. Washington Surgi-Clinic provides affordable gynecological services for women in DC, Maryland, and Virginia.

When It’s Time for the First Exam

Generally, a girl’s first gynecological exam should occur either when she becomes sexually active or by the time she turns 18. Even if you have experienced no problems by age 18 and are not sexually active, it’s important to schedule an exam to check your reproductive health. There are many additional reasons you might schedule a gynecological exam before age 18. If you have pain in your lower abdomen or vagina, experience severely painful or very long periods, or have missed more than one period following sexual intercourse, schedule a gynecological exam. If you have not had your first period by age 16, you should also visit a gynecologist for a checkup.

What Happens During the Exam

During the exam, your gynecologist will ask you a number of questions regarding your general health as well as your periods and your level of sexual activity. It’s important to answer these questions honestly. Your doctor will make note of your weight, temperature, and blood pressure. In many cases, a breast exam is part of a full gynecological exam. Breast exams check painlessly for abnormal breast tissue, such as breast cancer. Next, your gynecologist will perform a pelvic exam . This includes both an internal and external examination of your vulva, vagina, cervix, and reproductive organs. The procedure is comfortable and only requires a few moments to complete.

You can schedule a gynecological exam at Washington Surgi-Clinic today by calling (202) 659-9403. Our women’s clinic is dedicated to providing gynecological care with the respect and privacy every woman deserves. Explore our services and find out more about how we can help you afford your visit by clicking on our website.

As you age, your ovaries reduce their production of the hormone called estrogen. Lower estrogen levels affect your body in many ways, eventually leading to menopause.

This video discusses some of the most common symptoms of menopause. These include hot flashes and vaginal dryness or irritation. You may also experience a lower level of sexual interest, difficulty sleeping, and mood swings. You will learn what causes each of these symptoms and how to ease them with the help of your doctor or gynecologist.

If you have questions about your health as a woman, contact Washington Surgi-Clinic today at (202) 659-9403. We proudly provide compassionate and comprehensive gynecological and women’s health services in Maryland, Virginia, and Washington. DC. We invite you to learn more about us and our dedication to your health by clicking on our website.

Menopause occurs as your body’s production of estrogen diminishes with age. It is often accompanied by a variety of symptoms that can cause discomfort and changes in mood. It’s important to maintain your health by visiting your doctor or gynecologist to discuss your symptoms and the treatments that may help.

Hot Flashes

Hot flashes are an extremely common symptom of menopause. These flashes cause an intense sensation of heat, most often in the upper body and face. The skin appears flushed and red, and you may break into a sweat. Hot flashes can last for seconds to minutes and occur several times a day.

Night Sweats

Night sweats are frequently associated with hot flashes that occur during sleep. You may wake up feeling extremely warm and drenched in sweat regardless of the temperature of your bedroom. The excessive sweating that occurs during a night sweat can soak through nightclothes and bedding.

Vaginal Dryness

As you undergo menopause, lower levels of estrogen result in less lubrication produced inside the vagina. This leads to dryness and irritation of the skin as the walls of the vagina become thinner. Dryness and lack of adequate lubrication can cause sexual intercourse to feel uncomfortable or even painful.

Mood Changes

Hormonal changes can affect your mood as well. Menopausal women frequently experience mood swings such as sudden irritability, exasperation, and anxiety. Some women also suffer from recurring bouts of depression.

Trouble Sleeping

The natural aging process can work together with the changes you undergo during menopause to affect your natural sleep schedule. You may have difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep, a condition called insomnia. For many women, insomnia is further exacerbated by hot flashes and night sweats.

If you are experiencing signs of menopause, the women’s care providers at Washington Surgi-Clinic can help. Call us today at (202) 659-9403 to find out about our health care services in DC and beyond. You can find more helpful information about our women’s clinic and the importance of maintaining your health on our blog.

The choice to have an abortion can be a difficult one, but every woman has the right to evaluate her health and her needs when making this decision. You can find the facts about abortion and your reproductive health on these informative websites:

• There are many common myths surrounding abortion and its results regarding your mental and physical health. You can debunk these myths by learning the truth on ProChoice.org.
• Although rare, abortion may raise your risk for certain complications during future pregnancies. You can learn more on the Mayo Clinic website .
• Cervical insufficiency is a mild and easily-treatable condition that can result from a past abortion. BabyCenter.com explains this condition in more detail.
• Some women experience Post Abortion Stress Syndrome , or PASS, following an abortion. Click over to PsychologyToday.com to read more about this condition and when you should discuss your feelings with someone who can help.
• Although abortions are safe procedures, there are some signs to watch for that indicate you should call a doctor. You can learn more by reading this article on WebMD.com.

At Washington Surgi-Clinic, you will find the care and compassion you need to make the right choice for your health and future. We provide safe abortion procedures in our Virginia women’s clinic with the utmost respect for your privacy and dignity. You can learn more about our services, including financial aid for medical care, by clicking on our website or calling (202) 659-9403.

A previous abortion procedure may cause concern if you wish to conceive in the future. Many women are worried about their fertility and reproductive health if they have had an abortion earlier in life. Despite many worrying misconceptions, the truth is that abortion will not affect your future ability to become pregnant.

Possible Complications

While abortion does not affect your fertility, it may raise your risk for certain pregnancy complications such as vaginal bleeding and placenta previa. However, regular care during pregnancy can easily diagnose and address these complications. If you experienced an infection before or after your abortion that required medical care or hospitalization, you should check with your doctor if you have questions about becoming pregnant again.

Cervical Insufficiency

Surgical abortion techniques require dilation of the cervix to remove the fetus and placenta. Any procedure that dilates the cervix has the potential to weaken it. This raises your chances for a condition called cervical insufficiency , in which pressure from the fetus causes the cervix to dilate prematurely during pregnancy. This mild complication can be easily addressed, often with just a few stitches to hold the cervix closed until birth.

Uterine Scar Tissue

Undergoing numerous procedures which dilate the cervix and clean out the uterus can cause scar tissue to form in these areas. This condition is rare, but it can be easily diagnosed and treated. A physician can perform a procedure called hysteroscopy, during which a small camera is used to inspect the cervix and uterus for scar tissue. This tissue can often be removed during the same procedure to ensure a healthy future pregnancy.

Washington Surgi-Clinic has been serving the needs of women from Washington, Maryland, and Virginia since 1973, providing supportive and professional health care and abortion options. We are dedicated to protecting your dignity and privacy while providing safe and affordable abortion options. Please call us today at (202) 659-9403 or visit our website for more information about abortion and fertility.

If you have previously undergone an abortion or have had a miscarriage, you may question whether it affects your ability to become pregnant again. This video discusses whether a woman can become pregnant after an abortion. In most cases, the answer is yes—elective abortion does not compromise your ability to become pregnant again in the future. If you have undergone multiple procedures or surgeries to your cervix or uterus, you may wish to speak to your doctor if you are worried that your fertility has been affected.

At Washington Surgi-Clinic , we provide the information you need about abortion and pregnancy. Contact us today at (202) 659-9403 to schedule an appointment and to get answers to your questions about your reproductive health. Visit our website for more information about our abortion services, including financial aid for those who require assistance.

After an abortion, your body and mind need time to heal. Although the procedure is safe and performed on an outpatient basis, it’s important to take a day or two to recover before returning to normal activities. Ask your women’s clinic about any special instructions regarding home care and don’t hesitate to call with any questions or concerns after your procedure.

The Next Few Days
After your abortion procedure, you will be monitored at the clinic for a few hours to ensure you are in good health. Once you are sent home, your doctor will give you information regarding rest and any warning signs that require a call to a doctor. Take it easy for a day or two in order to let your body heal and adjust. You may experience vaginal bleeding for a few days or weeks after your abortion—use a pad rather than a tampon to absorb the flow.

The Return To Normal Activities
You can return to work or class within a day of your abortion, depending on how you are feeling.  Avoid strenuous exercise or vaginal intercourse for one to two weeks. You can begin ovulating again as soon as two weeks after an abortion, so birth control is recommended if you wish to avoid pregnancy.

Your Mental Health
You may feel a range of emotions following your abortion, including relief, worry, or even depression. Some women feel sadness regarding the circumstances of their abortion, rather than sadness about the decision to undergo the procedure. Allow yourself to feel all of these emotions and speak to someone you trust about your experience. This may be a staff member at your women’s clinic, a friend, a family member, or a teacher or religious leader.

The staff at Washington Surgi-Clinic is here to help you through the abortion process with care and compassion. We respect your rights and your decision, and are dedicated to protecting your privacy, dignity, and health during this time. Please call us at (202) 659-9403 or click through our website for more information regarding abortion and your health.

At Washington Surgi-Clinic , our goal is to provide you with a safe medical procedure at an affordable fee. Are you a past or current patient? We would love to hear about your experience.

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Contact Washington Surgi-Clinic by calling (202) 659-9403. We are dedicated to the protection of your privacy and rights. Please explore our website to learn more about our services, including our commitment to providing affordable rates and payment options for all women.