• The Benefits of Working With Washington Surgi-Clinic

    Official Logo

    Women with unplanned pregnancies deserve medical care that addresses their physical and emotional needs during this difficult time. For over three decades, compassionate care has defined Washington Surgi-Clinic and its staff. We keenly understand the privacy and sensitivity that our patients require, which is why we strive to provide the highest level of abortion care for each individual who enters our women’s clinic. We offer a comprehensive approach to abortion that helps patients decide on the right treatment option for their personal needs. In addition to our strict standards for patient safety, we afford women a secure space in which they can feel comfortable and supported through their procedure. If you are currently facing an unexpected pregnancy, Washington Surgi-Clinic can help.

    No matter your financial constraints, Washington Surgi-Clinic can see to it that you receive the care you need. Call (202) 659-9403 to schedule a consultation at our abortion clinic . We also offer gynecology services to Maryland and Virginia residents.

  • A Look at First and Second Trimester Terminations

    Doctor and patient.

    Abortion is a safe procedure for women who become unexpectedly pregnant and wish to terminate the pregnancy. The process of getting an abortion can vary from woman to woman. Treatment depends on the progression of the pregnancy and personal preferences of the patient. Any existing medical conditions may also affect the type of abortion that a patient can receive. If you are facing an unplanned pregnancy, the following information on first and second trimester terminations can help you better understand your options.

    Chemical Abortions

    Chemical abortions are available only to women who are still within their first trimester of pregnancy. The patient is given oral drugs to induce the termination of the pregnancy . The result is cramping and bleeding similar to what a woman might experience during a miscarriage. Because chemical abortions are performed only during the first half of the first trimester, women seeking this procedure should contact a women’s clinic as soon as they learn they are pregnant.

    Surgical Abortions

    Women in both their first or second trimesters of pregnancy may be candidates for surgical abortions. During the first trimester, surgical abortion is referred to as dilatation and curettage. This procedure involves the termination of pregnancy through suction. Once a woman has entered her second trimester, a surgical abortion is called dilatation and evacuation. Surgeons who perform these procedures place a high priority on patient safety and comfort. Women may choose from several different sedative options to ensure their complete ease while undergoing a surgical abortion.

    Patient Counseling

    An abortion requires more than safe surgical practices. It also involves looking after a patient’s emotional wellbeing. Both prior to an abortion and after the procedure, patients can express their concerns and questions with qualified counselors. When you undergo an abortion, you can rest assured that you will be in the company of an understanding and supportive medical staff.

    Would you like to speak to someone about your abortion options? Call (202) 659-9403 to schedule a consultation at Washington Surgi-Clinic . Our Washington, D.C. women’s clinic is here to help you make the right decision for your health, future, and reproductive needs.

  • HPV and Cervical Cancer

    Could you be at risk for cervical cancer? This video animation illustrates how HPV can increase the chances of getting this disease.

    More than 30 different strains of HPV can be transmitted through sexual contact. If a woman becomes infected with this virus, her likelihood of suffering from cervical cancer may increase. The HPV strains that cause cervical cancer invade healthy tissues and alter their makeup. These mutated cells can then increase and multiply, eventually overtaking healthy cells and invading tissues of nearby organs. Because HPV may show no symptoms, gynecologists strongly urge all adult women to undergo regular Pap smear testing for the early detection of abnormal cervical cells.

    Washington Surgi-Clinic offers gynecology services for women in the greater Washington, D.C. area. Call (202) 659-9403 for an appointment at our women’s clinic .

  • What You Need to Know About HPV

    Teenage girl looking thoughtful about troubles

    HPV is a particularly dangerous disease because few people know they have it. This unawareness may make those with HPV less likely to engage in safe sexual practices and seek treatment for their condition. These behaviors make it all the easier for HPV to be passed from one person to the next. Gynecologists stress the importance of regular Pap smears so that women with HPV can become aware of their health needs and more vigilant about protecting others from future transmission.

    Transmission

    The medical community has identified approximately 200 strains of HPV. Of these strains, about three-dozen can be passed from person to person through sexual contact . Healthcare providers urge all individuals who are sexually active to use condoms. Though condoms cannot provide complete protection against HPV transmission, they can significantly reduce the risk. Seeking a monogamous relationship with a partner free from HPV can also reduce the risk of infection. Some women may also be eligible for a special vaccination that prevents some strains of the virus.

    Infection

    Several HPV strains that are transmitted through sexual contact may develop into genital warts, which are an evident indication of the virus’s presence. Other strains contribute to cervical cancer. Cancer develops when HPV modifies the makeup of the cervical cells. These abnormal cells can grow without restraint and simultaneously kill healthy tissue. 

    Complications

    The HPV strains that cause cervical cancer may be present in the body for years before a woman is aware of her infection status. Only a Pap smear can provide an early indication of HPV and its impact on cervical tissue. Without regular visits to the gynecologist, unabated HPV and subsequent cervical cancer may be fatal.

    When was the last time that you received a Pap smear? To get up-to-date on your health screenings, call Washington Surgi-Clinic at (202) 659-9403 for an appointment . Our women’s clinic provides a wide range of services, including Pap smears and HIV testing

  • When Should You Have Your First Gynecological Exam?

    Teenage girl looking thoughtful about troubles

    Gynecological exams are a normal part of a young woman’s health care routine. This type of exam assesses the health of your reproductive organs to check for problems or health conditions that need to be addressed. Washington Surgi-Clinic provides affordable gynecological services for women in DC, Maryland, and Virginia.

    When It’s Time for the First Exam

    Generally, a girl’s first gynecological exam should occur either when she becomes sexually active or by the time she turns 18. Even if you have experienced no problems by age 18 and are not sexually active, it’s important to schedule an exam to check your reproductive health. There are many additional reasons you might schedule a gynecological exam before age 18. If you have pain in your lower abdomen or vagina, experience severely painful or very long periods, or have missed more than one period following sexual intercourse, schedule a gynecological exam. If you have not had your first period by age 16, you should also visit a gynecologist for a checkup.

    What Happens During the Exam

    During the exam, your gynecologist will ask you a number of questions regarding your general health as well as your periods and your level of sexual activity. It’s important to answer these questions honestly. Your doctor will make note of your weight, temperature, and blood pressure. In many cases, a breast exam is part of a full gynecological exam. Breast exams check painlessly for abnormal breast tissue, such as breast cancer. Next, your gynecologist will perform a pelvic exam . This includes both an internal and external examination of your vulva, vagina, cervix, and reproductive organs. The procedure is comfortable and only requires a few moments to complete.

    You can schedule a gynecological exam at Washington Surgi-Clinic today by calling (202) 659-9403. Our women’s clinic is dedicated to providing gynecological care with the respect and privacy every woman deserves. Explore our services and find out more about how we can help you afford your visit by clicking on our website.

  • Identifying the Symptoms of Menopause

    As you age, your ovaries reduce their production of the hormone called estrogen. Lower estrogen levels affect your body in many ways, eventually leading to menopause.

    This video discusses some of the most common symptoms of menopause. These include hot flashes and vaginal dryness or irritation. You may also experience a lower level of sexual interest, difficulty sleeping, and mood swings. You will learn what causes each of these symptoms and how to ease them with the help of your doctor or gynecologist.

    If you have questions about your health as a woman, contact Washington Surgi-Clinic today at (202) 659-9403. We proudly provide compassionate and comprehensive gynecological and women’s health services in Maryland, Virginia, and Washington. DC. We invite you to learn more about us and our dedication to your health by clicking on our website.

  • Are You Showing Symptoms of Menopause?

    Doctor and patient.

    Menopause occurs as your body’s production of estrogen diminishes with age. It is often accompanied by a variety of symptoms that can cause discomfort and changes in mood. It’s important to maintain your health by visiting your doctor or gynecologist to discuss your symptoms and the treatments that may help.

    Hot Flashes

    Hot flashes are an extremely common symptom of menopause. These flashes cause an intense sensation of heat, most often in the upper body and face. The skin appears flushed and red, and you may break into a sweat. Hot flashes can last for seconds to minutes and occur several times a day.

    Night Sweats

    Night sweats are frequently associated with hot flashes that occur during sleep. You may wake up feeling extremely warm and drenched in sweat regardless of the temperature of your bedroom. The excessive sweating that occurs during a night sweat can soak through nightclothes and bedding.

    Vaginal Dryness

    As you undergo menopause, lower levels of estrogen result in less lubrication produced inside the vagina. This leads to dryness and irritation of the skin as the walls of the vagina become thinner. Dryness and lack of adequate lubrication can cause sexual intercourse to feel uncomfortable or even painful.

    Mood Changes

    Hormonal changes can affect your mood as well. Menopausal women frequently experience mood swings such as sudden irritability, exasperation, and anxiety. Some women also suffer from recurring bouts of depression.

    Trouble Sleeping

    The natural aging process can work together with the changes you undergo during menopause to affect your natural sleep schedule. You may have difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep, a condition called insomnia. For many women, insomnia is further exacerbated by hot flashes and night sweats.

    If you are experiencing signs of menopause, the women’s care providers at Washington Surgi-Clinic can help. Call us today at (202) 659-9403 to find out about our health care services in DC and beyond. You can find more helpful information about our women’s clinic and the importance of maintaining your health on our blog.

  • Know Your Options

    Doctor and patient.

    The choice to have an abortion can be a difficult one, but every woman has the right to evaluate her health and her needs when making this decision. You can find the facts about abortion and your reproductive health on these informative websites:

    • There are many common myths surrounding abortion and its results regarding your mental and physical health. You can debunk these myths by learning the truth on ProChoice.org.
    • Although rare, abortion may raise your risk for certain complications during future pregnancies. You can learn more on the Mayo Clinic website .
    • Cervical insufficiency is a mild and easily-treatable condition that can result from a past abortion. BabyCenter.com explains this condition in more detail.
    • Some women experience Post Abortion Stress Syndrome , or PASS, following an abortion. Click over to PsychologyToday.com to read more about this condition and when you should discuss your feelings with someone who can help.
    • Although abortions are safe procedures, there are some signs to watch for that indicate you should call a doctor. You can learn more by reading this article on WebMD.com.

     

    At Washington Surgi-Clinic, you will find the care and compassion you need to make the right choice for your health and future. We provide safe abortion procedures in our Virginia women’s clinic with the utmost respect for your privacy and dignity. You can learn more about our services, including financial aid for medical care, by clicking on our website or calling (202) 659-9403.

  • Can You Get Pregnant If You’ve Had an Abortion in the Past?

    676742

    A previous abortion procedure may cause concern if you wish to conceive in the future. Many women are worried about their fertility and reproductive health if they have had an abortion earlier in life. Despite many worrying misconceptions, the truth is that abortion will not affect your future ability to become pregnant.

    Possible Complications

    While abortion does not affect your fertility, it may raise your risk for certain pregnancy complications such as vaginal bleeding and placenta previa. However, regular care during pregnancy can easily diagnose and address these complications. If you experienced an infection before or after your abortion that required medical care or hospitalization, you should check with your doctor if you have questions about becoming pregnant again.

    Cervical Insufficiency

    Surgical abortion techniques require dilation of the cervix to remove the fetus and placenta. Any procedure that dilates the cervix has the potential to weaken it. This raises your chances for a condition called cervical insufficiency , in which pressure from the fetus causes the cervix to dilate prematurely during pregnancy. This mild complication can be easily addressed, often with just a few stitches to hold the cervix closed until birth.

    Uterine Scar Tissue

    Undergoing numerous procedures which dilate the cervix and clean out the uterus can cause scar tissue to form in these areas. This condition is rare, but it can be easily diagnosed and treated. A physician can perform a procedure called hysteroscopy, during which a small camera is used to inspect the cervix and uterus for scar tissue. This tissue can often be removed during the same procedure to ensure a healthy future pregnancy.

    Washington Surgi-Clinic has been serving the needs of women from Washington, Maryland, and Virginia since 1973, providing supportive and professional health care and abortion options. We are dedicated to protecting your dignity and privacy while providing safe and affordable abortion options. Please call us today at (202) 659-9403 or visit our website for more information about abortion and fertility.

  • Becoming Pregnant After an Abortion

    If you have previously undergone an abortion or have had a miscarriage, you may question whether it affects your ability to become pregnant again. This video discusses whether a woman can become pregnant after an abortion. In most cases, the answer is yes—elective abortion does not compromise your ability to become pregnant again in the future. If you have undergone multiple procedures or surgeries to your cervix or uterus, you may wish to speak to your doctor if you are worried that your fertility has been affected.

    At Washington Surgi-Clinic , we provide the information you need about abortion and pregnancy. Contact us today at (202) 659-9403 to schedule an appointment and to get answers to your questions about your reproductive health. Visit our website for more information about our abortion services, including financial aid for those who require assistance.