There are many different birth control methods , including pills, patches, injections, sterilization, and intrauterine devices (IUDs). Choosing to use birth control and choosing a preferred birth control method are highly personal decisions. Women who wish to learn more about their options can consult a gynecologist.

Family Planning

For many women, the primary reason for using birth control is that it enables them to make family planning decisions. Some women decide that becoming a mother is simply not right for them. Others do wish to have one or more children, yet the time isn’t quite right for that. Many women decide that they prefer to work on their careers, find the right partner, travel around the world, or fulfill other life ambitions before settling down to have children. Birth control methods give women the freedom of choice. Choosing to use birth control is also a responsible move to make if becoming pregnant isn’t a good option.

Menstrual Regulation

Although birth control pills and other methods are primarily designed to prevent unwanted pregnancies , they have other health benefits for women. Many women take birth control pills even if they are not sexually active because these pills enable women to have a lighter menstrual flow with fewer cramps. Women can also regulate the timing of their periods, giving them greater control over their own bodies. Some birth control methods allow women to have only a few periods a year or to forego periods altogether.

Medical Conditions

A gynecologist might prescribe birth control pills to a woman to control a medical condition. For example, the pill can help women who suffer from endometriosis, which is a painful condition in which endometrial tissue grows outside the uterus. Birth control pills can also help women who have polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), which refers to a hormonal imbalance.

Women who are exploring birth control methods in Washington, D.C. can speak with a gynecologist at Washington Surgi-Clinic about their options. Our gynecology services include a full array of birth control methods, such as injections, pills, patches, and more. To schedule an appointment , call (202) 683-7336.

There are more than 100 different types of human papilloma virus (HPV). HPV is so prevalent that almost every man and woman who is sexually active will contract at least one form of the virus at some point. Some types of HPV can cause serious health problems, while others are relatively benign and may not even cause symptoms. Since everyone who is sexually active is at risk of contracting HPV, it’s a good idea to consult a gynecologist about its risks and, if necessary, HPV treatment .

Identifying the Health Risks of HPV

Often, HPV does not cause any health problems and it can go away on its own. Other people experience health problems from HPV, such as genital warts, and oral and upper respiratory lesions. Additionally, certain types of cancer may be caused by HPV infection. In fact, most cases of cervical cancer are attributable to just two types of HPV, which are not the same types that cause genital warts. These forms of HPV can also cause oropharyngeal, penile, anal, vaginal, and vulvar cancers. An individual with HPV may be more likely to develop health problems, including cancer, if he or she has a suppressed immune system.

Reducing Your Risk of Acquiring HPV

You can talk to your gynecologist about reducing your risk of HPV . It’s highly advisable to use latex condoms during sexual intercourse, even if you’re using another birth control method such as the pill. However, be aware that HPV can infect areas of the body other than the reproductive organs. Being in a monogamous relationship can also lower the risk. Additionally, gynecologists urge males and females to get vaccinated for the types of HPV that can cause cancer. The HPV vaccine is indicated for boys and girls who are 11 to 12 years of age, and for men up to 21 years of age and women up to 26 years of age.

Women who require HPV treatment in Washington, D.C. can turn to Washington Surgi-Clinic for compassionate, confidential care. Our highly qualified gynecology team provides an array of women’s health services, including pregnancy termination. If you have any questions, call (202) 683-7336 and speak with a friendly staff member.

Discussing your birth control options is one of the most important conversations you can have with your gynecologist. It’s also essential to periodically revisit the subject with your doctor, as what is right for you for birth control now might not be the best choice for you in the future. There are many different options for birth control, so it’s possible to find one that works for you with the help of your gynecologist.

Birth control can be divided into two general categories: hormonal and non-hormonal. Hormonal birth control includes the birth control pill, shots, and patches. These methods have benefits such as relieving heavy periods, but not all women like the side effects. Non-hormonal birth control includes condoms, diaphragms, and some kinds of IUDs. These birth control methods don’t have the side effects of hormonal types, but they can be less convenient.

Your gynecologist at Washington Surgi-Clinic will help you decide which kind of birth control is right for you. For birth control management, gynecologic care, and more, call our DC clinic today at (202) 683-7336.

There are many pregnancy test kits on the market, so how do you know which one you should use? Watch this video to find out how to get the most reliable home pregnancy test results to put your mind at ease.

Start by considering how the test displays results. Don’t pick a test with any ambiguity. Instead, select one that is easy to read so there won’t be any confusion. You may also want to buy a kit that contains two pregnancy tests, so you can confirm your results. If a test indicates that you’re pregnant, make an appointment with your gynecologist right away.

If you’re pregnant and need help understanding your options, make an appointment at Washington Surgi-Clinic. We provide gynecologic care and abortion services to women from DC, Maryland, Virginia, and the surrounding areas. Schedule your appointment by calling (202) 268-7336.

When you’re making a decision about whether abortion is the right choice for you, too often, myths about abortion safety can get in the way. Don’t let falsehoods interfere with your ability to make the right decisions for your life and body. Arm yourself with the right information and consider these facts behind common myths about abortion safety.

Myth: Abortion Is More Dangerous Than Giving Birth

Myths about the dangers of abortion are simply not true. It is considered to be a very safe medical procedure that is well tolerated by the vast majority of patients. When compared to childbirth, abortion is about 10 times safer than going through delivery. Before you have an abortion, the doctor will consider your personal health and determine if it is a safe procedure for you.

Myth: Abortion Increases the Risk of Breast Cancer

This myth is one of the most persistent ones regarding abortion, but it has been debunked. In 2003, the National Cancer Institute brought together more than 100 leading experts in the study of pregnancy and breast cancer risk . These experts agreed that abortion has no impact on a woman’s risk of developing breast cancer in the future.

Myth: Abortion Causes Emotional Problems

Abortion itself does not lead to emotional problems. Many women who choose abortion do so because of the negative impact their pregnancy is having on their lives, so they often feel relieved when the process is complete. However, if you were experiencing emotional difficulties before your abortion, it’s likely that they may persist afterwards. Additionally, it’s not uncommon to feel a sense of sadness or loss after an abortion, but this does not usually translate into long-term emotional upheaval. Your emotional state before your abortion is a much better indicator of how you will feel afterwards.

At Washington Surgi-Clinic, our staff is here to support you as you make the important decision about whether abortion is right for you, and can help you throughout the procedure and recovery. Make an appointment today and let us help you get the care you need. Call us at (202) 683-7336.

When you decide to have an abortion, where you choose to get your care matters. Not all abortion clinics provide the same level of care, so you should carefully research your potential providers before selecting one. To choose a safe, quality clinic, follow these steps.

Locate Your Options

Depending on where you live, there may be several abortion providers near you. You can find all of the providers in your area by looking them up online or in your local phone book. Be sure to only look at clinics that are specifically identified as abortion clinics. Places that are described as crisis pregnancy centers often don’t provide abortions and try to dissuade women from getting them. If you’ve already made your decision, focus exclusively on places that offer abortion services.

Ask Questions

When you have a short list of places, start calling the clinics to ask questions. Ask about their processes, including how many appointments are required and what methods they use for abortions. This is also a good time to ask about other services, such as counseling, post-procedure birth control, and gynecological care. Make sure the clinic you choose meets all of your needs. For instance, if having counseling is important to you, or if want someone to come into the room with you for support, make sure these things are provided and allowed.

Visit the Clinic

Whether for an initial consultation or simply to evaluate the surroundings, be sure to visit the clinic before you have your procedure. Does the clinic look clean? Are you treated with care by the staff? Do you feel comfortable? It’s important for you to feel comfortable and confident in dealing with the clinic’s staff, so trust your instincts.

Our patients’ safety, privacy, and comfort are of the upmost important to us at Washington Surgi-Clinic in DC. If you’re considering an abortion, schedule an appointment at our clinic to learn more about our services by calling (202) 683-7336.

Gynecologists and other healthcare providers understand that patient confidentiality is essential. If a patient feels that healthcare information is not kept private, that individual may become reluctant to seek care or to fully advise the doctor of health issues. Health information privacy is protected by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA). This important privacy act dictates who has the authority to receive and access a patient’s health information.

HIPAA requires compliance from every healthcare provider in the U.S., including gynecologists, in addition to health insurance providers and healthcare clearinghouses. The law protects health information that can identify a patient. It also provides for certain patient rights, such as the rights to correct errors in records, to receive a copy of records, and to request confidential communications.

At Washington Surgi-Clinic, our gynecologists maintain the strictest standards of patient confidentiality and care. In Washington, D.C., parental or guardian consent is not required for an individual to seek gynecology services , including abortions and STD treatments. You can schedule an appointment at our women’s clinic by calling (202) 683-7336.

Morning after pills are used to prevent unwanted pregnancies in the event of a failure of your primary birth control method. For example, if you use condoms, you can take a morning after pill if a condom breaks. It is most effective when taken within 12 hours of birth control failure. However, it may be used up to 72 hours after unprotected sex.

When you watch this video, you’ll hear a gynecologist explain the morning after pill. She emphasizes that it is not intended to be a primary method of birth control and should only be used in the event of failure of your usual birth control method. This gynecologist also recommends that women who only use condoms keep a morning after pill in their medicine cabinet in case a condom fails.

Washington Surgi-Clinic is a women’s health clinic in Washington, D.C. that offers a full range of gynecology services , including birth control and abortions. Women throughout Maryland and Virginia can reach us at (202) 683-7336.

If you’ve recently discovered that you’re pregnant, you can turn to a women’s health clinic for support. You have the right to choose to abort the pregnancy, if you wish. When you visit a gynecologist to discuss having an abortion, you’ll receive counseling on what type of procedure you might have, what to expect from the procedure, and what the benefits and risks are. You may wish to write down a list of your questions and bring it along to your appointment. Here are some common questions that women considering abortions have.

Are Abortions Safe?

Many women are understandably concerned about the safety of abortions . Every medical procedure carries certain risks; however, abortions are among the safest types of medical procedures. In fact, childbirth is known to have higher rates of complications than pregnancy terminations. Your healthcare provider will assess your health, discuss your anesthesia options, and counsel you as to the potential risks.

What Are Chemical vs. Surgical Abortions?

It isn’t always necessary to have a surgical abortion. In pregnancies of less than six weeks, you may choose to have a chemical abortion. This involves taking medications to cause termination of the pregnancy, which is then expelled much like a miscarriage. Surgical abortions can be performed during the first and second trimesters. There are different techniques that may be used, such as suction dilatation and curettage (D&C), and dilatation and evacuation (D&E).

Can Abortions Increase the Risk of Breast Cancer?

More than 100 of the world’s leading experts on women’s health met in 2003 to study this issue. After exhaustively reviewing the scientific evidence, they determined that having an abortion does not increase a woman’s risk of breast cancer.

If you have additional questions about abortions, the gynecology team at Washington Surgi-Clinic will be happy to assist you. Our caring gynecologists are sensitive to the needs of women and we strive to provide services that uphold our patients’ dignity and privacy. To discuss having an affordable abortion at our clinic in Washington, D.C., call (202) 683-7336 or visit us online for more information .

Before you have an abortion at a women’s clinic, you’ll speak with the gynecologist about the procedure and you’ll have the opportunity to ask any questions you may have. Be sure to ask what you can expect from the recovery process and which symptoms warrant a call to the women’s clinic . Continue reading to find out more about recovering after an abortion.

Resuming Normal Activities

Follow your gynecologist’s instructions for recovering from your abortion. You should rest for the remainder of the day after the procedure. Most women can resume normal activities the next day; however, avoid strenuous activities if they cause you pain. If you’re taking prescription pain relievers, you’ll need to refrain from driving.

Managing Bleeding

It’s normal to bleed for up to a week after a pregnancy termination. Some women may bleed intermittently for a few weeks afterwards. You may also pass small blood clots and experience cramping. Use a sanitary pad, rather than a tampon, and call your gynecologist if the bleeding is very heavy or the pain increases.

Preventing Infection

You can reduce the risk of contracting a pelvic infection by avoiding vaginal intercourse, douching, and the use of tampons for two weeks following the abortion. It’s advisable to shower, rather than take baths. Additionally, take any antibiotics you may have been given according to their instructions.

Expressing Emotions

Some women experience complex emotional challenges after having an abortion. This can include those who wholeheartedly embrace a woman’s right to choose. You may wish to share your feelings with a close friend or with a professional counselor. Stress management activities, such as writing in a journal, may help you come to terms with your feelings.

At Washington Surgi-Clinic, our gynecologists are courteous professionals who will listen carefully to your needs and concerns, and provide personalized care. You can view our range of gynecology services on our website or call our women’s clinic at (202) 683-7336 to learn more. Our gynecology team is pleased to serve women in Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Virginia.