With so many birth control options available, there is no reason to suffer through undesirable side effects or other disruptions that can ultimately interfere with your method’s effectiveness. When you don’t love your birth control method, you’re less likely to use it correctly, which could lead to unwanted pregnancy. If you experience any of these signs that your birth control isn’t working for you, schedule an appointment with your gynecologist to discuss other options that may be better suited to your needs.

You have breakthrough bleeding.

Breakthrough bleeding occurs when you experiencing bleeding outside of menstruation. It’s not uncommon for women to experience a small amount of spotting between periods when they first begin a new birth control pill or other hormonal birth control method. However, if breakthrough bleeding is happening every month, talk to your gynecologist. Using a different pill or other methods of birth control can resolve the bleeding.

You’re feeling nauseous or bloated.

When you are on the wrong mix of hormones for your body, you may experience symptoms of PMS sporadically throughout your cycle. This includes feelings of nausea and bloating that you may be more used to having right before your period. These symptoms are not just part of taking hormonal birth control that you have to accept. See your gynecologist to discuss the symptoms you’re having. A different combination of hormones may work better for you, or you may decide that hormonal birth control is not right for you at all and that you could benefit from copper IUDs or barrier methods instead.

You’re struggling to use it correctly.

Even the most reliable form of birth control can’t deliver results if you don’t use it the right way. If you are having difficulty remembering to take your birth control pills at the right time or use your barrier method correctly, then consider switching to another kind of contraception to reduce your chances of an unwanted pregnancy.

Let Washington Surgi-Clinic help you explore your options birth control methods in Washington, D.C. to find the best solution for your needs. Schedule a consultation with a gynecologist today by calling (202) 659-9403.

Most women suffer from a vaginal infection at least once in their lives, but when infections happen repeatedly, it’s important to work with your gynecologist to find a way to prevent future outbreaks. Although most vaginal infections do not cause serious long-term health complications, some can be a sign of more serious problems. If you’re experiencing recurring vaginal infections, these tips may help you get the treatment you need to avoid future flare-ups.

Get the Right Diagnosis

In some cases, women attempt to treat their vaginal infections at home, only to find that the infection keeps coming back after treatment stops. When this happens, it is usually because they are using the wrong treatment for the infection they have. For example, bacterial vaginosis, or BV, is an extremely common infection that shares symptoms with yeast infections. Women who have BV may assume that they have a yeast infection and use over-the-counter yeast infection medications for treatment, only to find that the symptoms return. When you have a vaginal infection, see your gynecologist for a definitive diagnosis, so that you get the right treatment the first time.

Consider Underlying Conditions

In some cases, recurrent vaginal infections can indicate an underlying medical condition that needs to be treated. Undiagnosed or uncontrolled diabetes, for instance, is associated with recurring yeast infections, as elevated blood glucose levels can upset the balance of yeast and bacteria in the vagina. STDs can also cause vaginal infections. If you have recurring infections, talk to your doctor about STD testing and other kinds of screenings you may need. Treating the underlying condition can resolve your recurring infections.

Practice Safe Sex

If you have a vaginal infection, you can transfer your infection to your partner during sexual intercourse. Your partner can then transfer the infection back to you. To break this cycle, avoid sexual intercourse until you are better, or ask your gynecologist if using a condom will protect your partner from infection.

Take control of your sexual health today with gynecology services in Washington, D.C. at Washington Surgi-Clinic. From STD testing and Pap smears to birth control counseling and pregnancy termination, we offer comprehensive women’s health services with a focus on patient confidentiality. To find out more about our services or to make an appointment, call (202) 659-9403.

When you go to the clinic for a pregnancy termination procedure, the gynecologist will provide pain management care to keep you comfortable. Discuss any previous reactions you may have had to pain medicine in the past, and let your doctor know which medications you’re already taking. To keep you relaxed and comfortable during a second trimester abortion, a certified nurse anesthetist will administer anesthesia.

You can choose which type of anesthesia you wish to have. You may have local anesthesia, which only numbs the immediate area. Conscious sedation will relax your whole body, but it won’t make you fall asleep. General anesthesia is the deepest level, as it allows you to sleep through the procedure. You’ll be closely monitored for safety the entire time you’re asleep.

There are several options for pain management when you have an abortion in Washington, D.C. Call Washington Surgi-Clinic at (202) 659-9403 to request a consult for pregnancy termination.

Most women experience mild, fleeting menstrual cramps every month. If you’re having severe pain that isn’t manageable with over-the-counter medications, it’s time to see your gynecologist. You should also see your doctor if your period lasts any longer than seven days, or if bleeding is heavy enough to require a new tampon or sanitary pad every hour. Several treatment options are available, including hormonal birth control pills.

When you watch this video, you’ll meet Donna. For years, Donna lived with excruciating menstrual pain and abnormally heavy bleeding. She was finally diagnosed with uterine fibroids, endometriosis, and adenomyosis. After having a hysterectomy, Donna feels like a new woman.

Women who have gynecology concerns and live near Washington, D.C. will find warm, trusted healthcare providers at Washington Surgi-Clinic. Call (202) 659-9403 to request our next available appointment with a gynecologist.

Intrauterine devices (IUDs) are a birth control method that’s become quite popular lately. Some women decide it’s the right choice for them because it’s low-maintenance—there’s no need to take a monthly trip to the pharmacy, or to remember to take a pill every day. However, an IUD isn’t necessarily right for every woman. Talk to a gynecologist about your options and your health history before deciding.

There are several IUDs.

Today, women have more IUD options available in the U.S. than in previous years. There are now at least four approved hormonal IUDs, plus one non-hormonal IUD. The hormonal IUDs work because of the time-controlled release of progestin, which is a synthetic version of progesterone—a hormone naturally made by the body. Depending on the brand of IUD you choose, the hormonal options can remain in place and stay effective for three to six years. The non-hormonal IUD is made with a little copper, which prevents sperm from fertilizing an egg. The copper IUD can remain effective for up to 12 years.

IUD insertion can be unpleasant.

Your gynecologist must insert the IUD—it cannot be inserted or removed at home. The doctor will make you as comfortable as possible during the insertion process, however, you should expect some discomfort. Initially, the insertion will feel much like a typical pelvic exam and pap test. The gynecologist will insert a speculum, followed by a long, skinny tube that holds the IUD. This must be inserted through the cervix and into the uterus. Although the experience may not be pleasant, it should be over within just a few minutes.

The adjustment period can last a couple of months.

Once your body has adjusted to the IUD’s presence, you shouldn’t notice anything different, except that you might eventually not have your period anymore. However, during the adjustment process, you may feel bloated, crampy, and occasionally nauseated.

At Washington Surgi-Clinic, we value and respect the unique needs of every woman we care for. Call (202) 659-9403 for an appointment, and one of our gynecologists will take the time to discuss your birth control options at length. If you choose to have an IUD inserted at our Washington, D.C. clinic, you can rest assured your gynecologist will exercise care to ensure your safety and comfort.