• What Causes Recurrent Yeast Infections?

    Yeast infections are a common type of problem treated by gynecologists. Candida albicans is normal in small numbers and is a yeast fungus that lives in the gastrointestinal tract and sometimes other areas, including the vagina. However, if the yeast’s population drastically increases in the vagina, this can cause a yeast infection. Most women will experience a yeast infection at some point in their life, and about half will have more than one. However, yeast infections are a common occurrence for some women.

    Recurrent yeast infections can be a result of several different causes. Obesity, conditions which affect the immune system, a small distance between the anus and vagina, frequent antibiotic use, and uncontrolled diabetes are all risk factors for recurrent yeast infections. Also, anything that affects your normal balance of hormones, such as birth control pills, pregnancy, and estrogen therapy, can lead to these recurrent vaginal infections. Finally, wearing tight-fitting and synthetic clothing can make the vagina more hospitable for yeast.

    If you’re in need of gynecology services or vaginal infection treatment near Washington DC, then please call Washington Surgi-Clinic at (202) 659-9403 to schedule your appointment with one of our compassionate doctors.

  • Common Reasons for Late Periods

    Missing a period can feel alarming, but pregnancy isn’t the only possible cause of this issue. If you’re wondering if you need to see a gynecologist, then watch this video to learn about some possible reasons why your period is late.

    High levels of stress can cause late periods, and being sick or taking medications can affect your menstruation schedule. Also, if you just started or stopped a birth control method, this can cause your period to be late. Drastic changes in weight, too much exercise, a fluctuating cycle, medical disorders, and pregnancy are also possible causes.

    Are you concerned about a missed period? If so, then call Washington Surgi-Clinic today at (202) 659-9403 to make an appointment with one of our gynecologists serving Washington DC.

  • How Untreated STDs Can Affect Your Health

    Are you concerned that you may have an STD? If so, then you shouldn’t ignore this problem. If testing reveals that you are positive for a sexually transmitted disease, then your gynecologist will advise you to start STD treatment right away. Continue reading to learn about the health risks associated with some common STDs when they aren’t treated.

    Chlamydia

    Caused by the bacteria Chlamydia trachomatis , chlamydia is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections in the United States. Often, this disease does not cause symptoms. However, when left untreated, chlamydia can lead to several complications, such as chronic pelvic pain, pelvic inflammatory disease, damage to the fallopian tubes and uterus, infertility, and ectopic pregnancies.

    Gonorrhea

    A sexually transmitted disease that is caused by the Neisseria gonorrhoeae bacteria, gonorrhea is quite common and establishes itself in the body by infecting mucous membranes. When gonorrhea is not treated, this can increase the individual’s risk of getting or transmitting HIV. Also, this disease can cause a life-threatening infection if it spreads to the blood, some symptoms of which include arthritis, dermatitis, and tenosynovitis.

    Trichomoniasis

    Trichomoniasis is caused by a parasite and is a very common STD that often has no symptoms. When this STD isn’t treated, infected pregnant women may experience complications such as having a baby with low birth weight, premature delivery, and transmission of the disease to the baby during delivery.

    Syphilis

    Syphilis is another example of a common STD that can pose serious health risks if it is left untreated. This bacterial infection is caused by Treponema pallidum and is usually spread through sexual contact. The infection commonly starts as a painless sore around the mouth, genitals, or rectum. When diagnosed early, syphilis can be cured. Without treatment, however, syphilis can be life-threatening and affect the brain and heart. Research has linked this type of infection with inflammation of the aorta, arterial aneurysms, and heart valve damage.

    If you’re in need of STD testing or STD treatment near Washington DC , then please call Washington Surgi-Clinic today at (202) 659-9403 to schedule an appointment with one of our gynecologists.

  • Answering Common Questions About Second-Trimester Pregnancy Terminations

    Are you thinking about seeing a gynecologist regarding pregnancy termination? If so, and you are in the second trimester of your pregnancy, then continue reading to learn the answers to common questions about terminating your pregnancy at this stage.

    What happens during a pre-abortion evaluation?

    When you visit a clinic about a possible abortion, your vital signs and medical history will be taken. Also, blood tests will be performed to check your blood count and Rh blood type. Next, you will be informed about all your pregnancy termination options and their associated benefits and risks. You will also receive information about what alternatives to abortion are available.

    How long does a second-trimester pregnancy termination take?

    A second-trimester abortion is typically completed in anywhere from 1 to 3 visits. The purpose of this is to gradually dilate the patient’s cervix to prepare for the pregnancy termination.

    Are there non-surgical second-trimester pregnancy termination options?

    Chemical abortions, which are non-surgical and involve the use of medications to terminate a pregnancy, are an option for women who are less than 6 weeks pregnant by menstrual age. This type of termination is not an option for second-trimester pregnancies.

    How is a second-trimester pregnancy termination performed?

    In the first stage of the pregnancy termination, your gynecologist will use sterilized laminaria sticks to dilate your cervix. The second stage of the pregnancy termination involves what’s known as the safest way of terminating second-trimester pregnancies, called the dilation and evacuation (D&E) method. The procedure is completed with the guidance of ultrasound.

    What should I expect after a second-trimester pregnancy termination?

    Following your surgery, you may have some pain, discomfort, and intermittent bleeding. You may also experience emotional side effects in addition to the physical ones, so it’s important to have access to a family member, friend, or professional who can provide you with the support that you need during this time.

    Do you have more questions about pregnancy termination near Washington DC? If so, then please contact Washington Surgi-Clinic today by calling (202) 659-9403.