• When a Pelvic Exam Is Needed to Begin Birth Control

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    Women generally expect to undergo a pelvic exam at a women’s health clinic before a gynecologist will prescribe birth control. However, such is not always the case these days. Under certain circumstances, a pelvic exam may not be needed. It’s best to consult your gynecologist to determine if you should have one or not. Before recommending a pelvic exam – or not – a gynecologist will ask you about your medical history. You should also discuss any symptoms you may have experienced.

    For example, gynecologists generally recommend pelvic exams to girls and women who have noticed symptoms such as pelvic pain, abdominal pain, abnormal bleeding, or any type of abnormal vaginal discharge. Pelvic exams are also a good idea for those who think they may have been exposed to a sexually transmitted disease (STD).

    At Washington Surgi-Clinic of Washington, D.C., you’ll find warm, caring professionals who take the time to learn about your unique medical concerns and birth control preferences. Women in the Maryland and Virginia areas can schedule an appointment at our women’s clinic by calling (202) 659-9403.

  • Starting the Birth Control Pill Following an Abortion

    Young woman looking at her contraceptive pills

    The gynecologist at your abortion clinic is likely to advise you to avoid sexual intercourse for one to three weeks following your abortion. This is necessary to give you time to heal and to reduce the risk of infection. However, since it is possible to become pregnant again right after your abortion, it’s a good idea to talk to the gynecologist about your birth control routine. If you decide to start taking birth control pills, your gynecologist can answer any questions you have about the medication.

    When to Take the Pill

    In previous years, women were advised to start taking the pill on the first Sunday after their period began or on the first day of their period. However, it’s now known that women can begin taking the pill at any time. Progestin-only pills and combination pills may both be taken immediately following an abortion. You might choose to start taking it that same day or the following day.

    How to Take the Pill

    For maximum effectiveness, gynecologists advise women to take the birth control pill at the same time each day. You can remind yourself to take your pill on time by associating it with another action. For example, place your pills by your toothbrush so you’ll remember to take one every morning. If you’re using a 28-day pill pack, take a pill each day without skipping days. If you’re using a 21-day pill pack, you’ll refrain from taking any pills for seven days before starting a new pill pack.

    How to Take Precautions

    After your abortion, your gynecologist is likely to prescribe antibiotics to reduce the risk of an infection. It’s important to take all of your antibiotics as prescribed; however, be aware that these drugs can lessen the effectiveness of birth control pills. Use condoms in addition to birth control pills while you’re taking antibiotics.

    If you’re looking for a fully equipped gynecology office that offers safe options for abortion, look no further than Washington Surgi-Clinic . Our gynecologists are always happy to discuss your birth control options with you. Call our women’s clinic in Washington, D.C. at (202) 659-9403 and ask us about our other healthcare services, including Pap smears, HIV testing, and STD treatment.

  • Understanding Your Birth Control Options

    Women have lots of options when it comes to birth control. It’s best to talk to a gynecologist to sort through all of your options, since your personal preferences and medical needs are unique. Oral contraceptives are among the most popular birth control choices. Your gynecologist might recommend a lighter dose or a heavier dose. If you prefer not to take a pill every day, your gynecologist may recommend trying the birth control shot, which is administered every three months.

    You can learn more about your birth control options by watching this video. This expert discusses the benefits of a heavier dose of oral contraceptive as compared to a lighter dose. She also provides a brief introduction to options such as the sponge and intrauterine devices (IUDs).

    The gynecologists of Washington Surgi-Clinic can help you decide which birth control option might be best for you. Call our women’s clinic in Washington, D.C. at (202) 659-9403 or visit us online to view our services .

  • What to Expect Following an Abortion

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    When you visit a women’s clinic for an abortion, the gynecologist will give you all the information you need for the procedure. You’ll learn which type of abortion you’re going to have, what you can expect during the procedure, and what you can expect afterward. Immediately after the abortion, you’ll be taken to a recovery area for monitoring before being released. Upon your discharge, you’ll receive additional instructions for the types of symptoms to watch out for and how to care for yourself during your recovery.

    Typical Symptoms

    It’s normal to experience some symptoms following your abortion. For example, you may experience spotting or other irregular bleeding for the next three weeks. Cramping is common for the first two weeks, although some women experience cramping longer than this. After a pregnancy is terminated, your hormone levels will drop. This causes emotional reactions such as mood swings.

    Rare Complications

    Some women may notice a milky discharge from the breasts following an abortion. This will dissipate within two weeks; avoid trying to express the discharge. Although it isn’t common to experience severe side effects from an abortion, it’s important to be aware of when you should call the gynecologist. Alert the women’s clinic if you bleed heavily and persistently, or if you pass very large blood clots. Other rare complications include increasing pain, persistent vomiting, and signs of an infection, such as dizziness.

    Self-Care Measures

    Give yourself as much time as you need to rest after your abortion. Avoid sexual intercourse for at least one to three weeks and be sure to use condoms when you do engage in intercourse. You can relieve cramps by taking over-the-counter pain relievers recommended by your gynecologist. Use pads instead of tampons to reduce your risk of an infection and take antibiotics as prescribed.

    At Washington Surgi-Clinic, we strive to make women’s health services available to all, regardless of financial situations. Give us a call at (202) 659-9403 to schedule an appointment with a gynecologist today. Our women’s clinic in Washington, D.C. is proud to serve women throughout the Maryland and Virginia areas.

  • Understanding the Philosophy of Washington Surgi-Clinic

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    An unexpected pregnancy or gynecological problem can leave a woman searching for safe, discreet, and affordable help. Washington Surgi-Clinic can provide capable and compassionate treatment for women of all ages who reside in Virginia, Maryland, and Washington, D.C. For more than 30 years, our doctors, nurses, and medical assistants have given patients exceptional care for all of their gynecological needs. Especially when a woman decides to have an abortion, she deserves exceptional medical attention and extraordinary personal consideration. Washington Surgi-Clinic can help women through the difficult process of abortion with our caring staff and competent treatment strategies. If you are looking for an abortion clinic, search no further than Washington Surgi-Clinic.

    Do you have questions about your pregnancy or another gynecological concern? Call Washington Surgi-Clinic at (202) 659-9403 to speak with one of our knowledgeable associates. You can also research our website to learn more about our women’s clinic services for the greater Virginia, Maryland, and Washington, D.C. communities.