• 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.

  • What Is Bacterial Vaginitis?

    Bacterial vaginitis is a condition that causes inflammation and discomfort in the vaginal region. Seeking gynecological help for bacterial vaginitis can alleviate symptoms.

    This video discusses the most common causes, symptoms, and treatment options for bacterial vaginitis. Lifestyle activities and medication usage can lead to this problem. Douching can disrupt the pH balance in the vaginal area and trigger bacterial vaginitis. Using antibiotics can also lead to an outbreak of this condition. In some cases, engaging in sexual activity may make women more susceptible to bacterial vaginitis. Many women become aware of their condition when they experience abnormal vaginal discharge, odor, or pain. A gynecologist can prescribe an antifungal medication to relieve symptoms.

    Are you suffering from bacterial vaginitis? Call Washington Surgi-Clinic at (202) 659-9403 to schedule an appointment with a gynecologist at our Washington, D.C. abortion clinic.

  • Tips for Supporting Your Partner after an Abortion

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    Even when a woman has supportive loved ones in her life, going through an abortion can be a difficult process. If your partner has recently terminated a pregnancy, you might be searching for ways to ease her emotional and physical pain. These tips can provide a starting point for helping your partner find solace during this time:

    Listen to Her

    Your partner may initiate conversations with you about her abortion, recovery, or other aspect of her pregnancy. When she reaches out to you, take the time to focus solely on her. Especially if she begins a conversation as you are engaged in another activity such as washing the dishes or folding the laundry, stop what you are doing and focus on her. Your full attention shows your partner that her words matter to you.

    Acknowledge Her Grief

    Regardless of how early in the pregnancy your partner underwent her abortion, she may suffer feelings of loss from it. Even if having an abortion was the right choice, she may still grieve for the pregnancy that is no more. Allow her to experience these emotions. You can ease her grief by acknowledging it. Rather than trying to comfort her with medical facts and figures, provide your partner with a safe place to express her sadness.

    Provide Assistance

    An abortion can take a toll on a woman’s physical and emotional strength. In the days and weeks following her procedure, your partner may find it difficult to maintain her normal activities, which might include going to work, making dinner, cleaning the house, or watching over children. Now is the time when you can show your support by taking on some of these duties.

    Is your wife or girlfriend considering an abortion? If you would like to speak with a qualified abortion provider, call Washington Surgi-Clinic at (202) 659-9403. We can schedule an appointment with one of our abortion doctors who will guide you through your choices. We provide highly affordable abortion options to all women who reside in D.C., Virginia, Maryland, and the surrounding regions.

  • Answers to Frequently Asked Questions about Pap Smears

    Doctor and patient.

    When was the last time you received a Pap smear? If you do not remember, or if you have never gotten this test, you may want to schedule an appointment with a gynecologist as soon as possible. This fast and painless procedure can provide important lifesaving benefits for women of all ages.

    What happens during a Pap smear?

    A Pap smear is a common part of a gynecological exam. In addition to performing a clinical breast and uterine examination, a gynecologist may evaluate the cervix to determine if any abnormalities might be present . The doctor may insert a small swab into the vagina that can take sample cells from the surface of the cervix. The test takes only moments to perform, and many patients feel nothing at all during the procedure.

    Should I get a Pap smear?

    All adult women should receive Pap smears. How often you have a Pap smear depends on your personal health, medical history, and lifestyle. Some doctors may recommend annual Pap smears for women of child-bearing age who are also sexually active. Post-menopausal women with no history of cervical cancer may require less frequent Pap smears. Talking to your doctor about your individual health issues can help you determine how often you should undergo this procedure.

    What are the benefits of getting a Pap smear?

    As with any other cancer, the early detection of cervical cancer can potentially avert life-threatening consequences. In fact, a Pap smear can detect cell irregularities that precede the onset of cervical cancer. With early treatment, you can avoid cervical cancer and its more serious complications.

    Is it time for you to get your Pap smear? Washington Surgi-Clinic can help you stay on track with your gynecological health. To speak with a representative about our preventive health services, or to schedule an appointment for a Pap smear, call (202) 659-9403. You can also visit our website for information on our other health services, including first- and second-trimester abortions, for women in Maryland, Virginia, and Washington, D.C.

  • Understanding Your Options for an Unexpected Pregnancy

    Doctor and patient.

    Have you recently found out that you are pregnant? If so, you have choices. To help you decide which choice is the best option for you, you may want to talk with a women’s clinic professional who can explain in detail how each choice may impact your future.

    Should you decide that you do not want to have a child or be pregnant, you can choose to have an abortion. Depending on how far along you are in your pregnancy, you may have multiple options for termination. Alternatively, if you decide that you want to become a mother, you can carry the pregnancy to full term. If you want to continue the pregnancy but do not want to raise a child, you can put up the child for adoption after childbirth.

    Washington Surgi-Clinic can guide you through your choices if you have an unexpected pregnancy. If you would like to speak with a representative at our Washington, D.C. women’s clinic, call (202) 659-9403. You can also visit our website for more information on our abortion services.

  • A Look at Your Medical Abortion Options

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    If you want to end a pregnancy, you may be able to have a medical abortion . This type of abortion, which entails the use of medications, is often an option for women who have not yet passed their ninth week of pregnancy. If you are early enough in your pregnancy and you would prefer taking medications to undergoing a surgical procedure, your gynecologist may prescribe one or more of the following medications to induce an abortion.

    Mifepristone

    To sustain a pregnancy, the placenta must provide nutrients to the growing embryo. An increase in the production of progesterone allows the placenta to thicken throughout the pregnancy so that it can fulfill this function. If the placenta does not grow, the pregnancy may end. The drug mifepristone can obstruct production of progesterone and the ability of the placenta to grow during a pregnancy, thereby facilitating the end of the pregnancy . You may know mifepristone as the drug RU-486.

    Methotrexate

    Methotrexate is a drug that works in much the same way as mifepristone. If you would like to end a pregnancy, a gynecologist can prescribe methotrexate to accomplish this. While this drug can be effective at prohibiting the placenta from thickening during pregnancy, it may require more time than mifepristone to complete this step of a medical abortion.

    Misoprostol

    The reason why many gynecologists prescribe several medications to induce abortion is because they can more successfully accomplish this task than when any one drug is used by itself. In addition to prescribing either mifepristone or methotrexate, an abortion doctor may also give you the drug misoprostol. This medication induces contractions, which is necessary so that the tissues of the uterus and placenta can pass out of your body.

    Do you have more questions about medical abortions? If so, call Washington Surgi-Clinic at (202) 659-9403 to set up a consultation. Our women’s clinic offers both medical and surgical abortion services to residents in Virginia, Maryland, and Washington, D.C.

     

  • The FDA Approves Morning-After Pill for Girls Ages 15 and Up

    The morning-after pill is a medication that can prohibit conception after sexual intercourse. This video reports on who can have access to this drug.

    The FDA has recently approved usage of the morning-after pill without a prescription for girls who are 15 years old or older. Individuals who intend to use this type of drug should be aware of what it can and cannot do. The morning-after pill can delay ovulation of an egg; however, if insemination has already taken place, this medication cannot and will not terminate the pregnancy.

    Are you in need of the morning-after pill? If so, call Washington Surgi-Clinic at (202) 659-9403. Our women’s clinic provides the morning-after pill for all eligible patients in the greater Virginia and Maryland regions.

  • Deciding Whether or Not to Have an Abortion

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    If you have found out that you are unexpectedly pregnant, you must next decide if you wish to remain so. Deciding whether to have an abortion is likely one of the most important choices you will make in your life. Knowing if it is right for you is a decision that only you can make. Talking to individuals you trust can help you make your choice. However, it is essential that you take the time to make the best decision for your current and future needs.

    Consider Your Other Options

    Prior to undergoing an abortion, you may want to consider what your life would be like if you followed another path. For instance, what would your life be like if you decided to continue the pregnancy and become a parent? Five or 10 years from now, will you be at peace or regretful of your decision to have an abortion? If becoming a parent is not an option for you, think about whether placing the child for adoption is a viable option.

    Think About Your Personal Beliefs

    Many people have strong views on parenthood, adoption, and abortion. Contemplate how you feel about each of these options. Your beliefs about each choice may be the result of your religious upbringing, political stance, or other factors. Consider if your feelings may be different now that you are pregnant. You may also want to ponder if your beliefs about abortion will remain consistent should you undergo one.

    Take Into Account Your Resources

    When deciding if abortion is the best choice, contemplate your current resources. For instance, if you were to continue the pregnancy, would you have the financial security needed to raise a child? Can you commit to the time and energy that a growing baby requires? Do you have friends and family who would support your decision to have a child? Knowing where you stand with your emotional, social, and financial resources can help you make the choice that is right for you.

    Washington Surgi-Clinic offers abortion services at our private, secure, and compassionate Washington, D.C. office. If you live in D.C., Maryland, or Virginia, we welcome you to call our office at (202) 659-9403 for an appointment. Together we can help you decide if having an abortion is the best choice for your circumstances.