• Proudly serving VA, MD, DC & WV and beyond
(703) 370-0550
  • Proudly serving VA, MD, DC & WV and beyond
  • Proudly serving VA, MD, DC & WV and beyond

Abortion FAQ

Safety and Abortion

Safety and Abortion 

What is an abortion?

In the event of unwanted pregnancy, a woman has the right to choose to voluntarily end her pregnancy. An unwanted pregnancy can be terminated by non-surgical means through the Abortion Pill or Methotrexate Injection and the surgical procedure is available with several sedation options ranging from Local Anesthesia, Intramuscular (IM/Twilight) or IV Sedation.

At Women’s Health Clinic, Inc., we provide surgical and non-surgical pregnancy termination services for women with unwanted, early pregnancies. Our abortion clinic provides these services with understanding, care and confidentiality. Click here to learn more.

Is abortion safe?

Abortion is safe. According to medical studies, early abortion is eleven times safer than giving birth. On rare occasion, there are complications for which most abortion clinics take special precautions.

In our experience as an abortion clinic, complications from abortions are very rare. Women’s Health Clinic, Inc. is proud of our long reputation to provide the very best medical care to our patients.

Is abortion painful?

Fear of the unknown is normal – especially when considering abortion. Although each person experiences pain differently from others, most patients experience pain during most abortion procedures. We recommend surgical abortion with full sedation for your comfort and ease.

Did you know effective pain management after surgery is shown to increase healing? Studies have shown that stress caused by pain slows the body’s healing process and increases the chance for illness later.

Learn More

Women’s Health Clinic, Inc. believes that your care during this stressful time should include our endeavor to provide you with as much comfort and ease available to our patients. We do our best to make you comfortable during an abortion procedure and we do everything we can to minimize pain and discomfort.

Will I be able to get pregnant again?

Uncomplicated, Early Term Abortions do not make you infertile. Nor do we believe that an abortion will complicate future pregnancy in most cases.

According to recent medical research, it was found that women using the abortion pill did not risk future tubal pregnancy or miscarriage in later pregnancies. Previous studies proved that surgical abortions do not increase the risks of problems in later pregnancies.

At Women’s Health Clinic, Inc., we can answer your questions and concerns about abortion, the options available to you, and fertility options for the future.

When can I have sex or intercourse?

After an abortion, you should not have sex or intercourse until after your follow-up appointment (a minimum of three weeks after your abortion procedure). Depending on your recovery, our doctors will consult with you on when you may resume sexual activities without worry of infection or other complications.

Our abortion clinic staff believes that care does not stop when an abortion procedure is performed. The follow-up is important and there is no question that is too personal or embarrassing that you shouldn’t ask. You can count on the staff of Women’s Health Clinic, Inc. to respect your privacy and answer your questions and concerns before and after an abortion procedure.

Can I drive after my abortion procedure?

You should not drive for 24 hours following a surgical procedure. Your ability to drive depends on the abortion procedure that you choose. Most patients that choose a non-surgical procedure are able to drive after their appointment. Driving while medically intoxicated is viewed the same as driving under the influence of alcohol and drugs. You can be arrested for all three. And you can injure, or worse, kill another person on the road under the influence of all three.

If you are having Abortion Surgery, you need to bring a friend, family member or significant other to drive for you.

How does the Abortion Pill Work?

The Abortion Pill has a higher rate of success for early pregnancies within 49 days or 7 weeks. Non-surgical, or medical abortion, is actually a program of possibly two sets of pills. The Abortion Pill or Mifeprex (Mifepristone, RU-486) blocks the hormone needed for pregnancy to continue. The second medication is Misoprostol (Cytotec) which makes the uterus contract, expelling the pregnancy similar to a miscarriage.

A chemotherapy drug called Methotrexate has been shown to be effective in terminating Ectopic pregnancies. Ectopic pregnancy means pregnancy is in the fallopian tube and not in the uterus. Please see the diagram below. Methotrexate terminates a pregnancy by blocking the production of folic acid. Then Misoprostol (Cytotec) is given which makes the uterus contract, expelling the pregnancy similar to a miscarriage.

How is First Trimester Surgical Abortion Performed?

The method for first trimester surgical abortion is called vacuum aspiration or suction curettage. Just like in a Gynecology examination you will be placed on a cushioned table. If you choose IV Sedation, the Doctor of Anesthesiology would administer the anesthesia at this time and remain by your side during the procedure. Once you are fully asleep, the Doctor places an instrument called the speculum which holds the sides of your vagina open. The speculum is also used in pap smears so it is well known to most women. A second instrument is placed to hold your cervix, which is the opening to your uterus.

The Doctor will then gradually dilate (widen) the cervix based on your stage of pregnancy. When the cervix has been appropriately dilated then the Doctor will insert a small tube called the cannula which is attached to a suction machine. The machine uses gentle suction to empty the uterus. Then the Doctor uses a spoon-shaped instrument called a curette and checks the uterine walls to make sure no tissue is left.

Disclaimer
The information presented throughout our site is for educational purposes only and is not engaged in rendering medical advice or professional services. The information provided on our website and through our Links should not be used for diagnosing or treating a health problem or a disease. It is not a substitute for professional care. If you have or suspect you may have a health problem, you should consult a health care provider.
Abortion Procedures

Abortion Procedures

Abortion Pill

Non-surgical, or medical abortion, can be accomplished with the Abortion Pill (RU-486, Mifepristone or Mifeprex) or by Methotrexate Injection. The Abortion Pill is an option for women who are 7 weeks pregnant or less. It causes a miscarriage and this can be triggered in the privacy of your home.

The Abortion Pill has a higher rate of success for early pregnancies within 49 days or 7 weeks. Non-surgical, or medical abortion, is actually a program of two sets of pills. The Abortion Pill or Mifeprex (Mifepristone, RU-486) blocks the hormone needed for pregnancy to continue. The second medication is Misoprostol (Cytotec) which makes the uterus contract, expelling the pregnancy similar to a miscarriage.

Methotrexate

Methotrexate is a chemotherapy agent that has been long used in cancer treatment and is administered by injection. It causes a miscarriage and it is a very effective method for Ectopic pregnancy (tubal pregnancy). Ectopic pregnancy means pregnancy is in the fallopian tube and not in the uterus. Methotrexate terminates a pregnancy by blocking the production of folic acid. We recommend Mifeprex if you are pregnant 7 weeks or less and Methotrexate Injection when Ectopic Pregnancy is suspected.

Surgical Abortion

In the first 12 weeks, suction-aspiration or vacuum abortion is the most common early pregnancy abortion procedure. Early-term surgical abortion is a simple procedure which is considered safer than childbirth when performed before the 12th week.

The method for first trimester surgical abortion is called vacuum aspiration or suction curettage. Just like in a Gynecology examination, you will be placed on a cushioned table. If you choose to be asleep (IV Sedation), the Doctor of Anesthesiology would administer the anesthesia at this time and remain by your side during the procedure. Once you are asleep, the Doctor places an instrument called the speculum which holds the sides of your vagina open. The speculum is also used in pap smears so it is well known to most women. A second instrument is placed to hold your cervix, which is the opening to your uterus.

The Doctor will then gradually dilate (widen) the cervix based on your stage of pregnancy. When the cervix has been appropriately dilated, the Doctor will insert a small tube called the cannula, which is attached to a suction machine. The machine uses gentle suction to empty the uterus. Then the Doctor uses a spoon-shaped instrument called a curette and checks the uterine walls to make sure no tissue is left.

  • Local Anesthesia (Local). In this form of anesthesia, a local numbing agent is used to block pain receptors in the cervix. It numbs the entrance to the cervix but not the uterus where the vacuum aspiration is taking place. Therefore, it is not totally effective in eliminating pain during the procedure. Local is not recommended for first time surgical abortion patients since they are wide awake and experience intense pain. Local is often recommended for patients who have experienced it in the past. The doctor must determine the patient’s qualification and approve the patient for local anesthesia.
  • IV Sedation. As patients may experience pain during most abortion procedures, we recommend surgical abortion with IV Sedation. In this form of anesthesia, the patient is given medication intravenously (IV) which causes the patient to become semiconscious and unresponsive to pain. The patient is basically “asleep”. With IV Sedation, the patient is monitored by a Doctor of Anesthesiology (Anesthesiologist) or a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA). The role of the Anesthesiologist or CRNA is to monitor the patient during surgery. IV Sedation patients feel no pain during surgery, less pain after surgery, and tend to recover faster immediately following surgery. IV Sedation is recommended for first time surgical abortion patients or patients with low pain tolerance. The surgical doctor and Anesthesiologist/CRNA must determine the patient’s qualification and approve the patient for IV Sedation.

The experienced and caring medical staff at Women’s Health Clinic, Inc. includes a board certified gynecologist and Doctor of anesthesiology. Many of our patients find comfort in knowing that they are being cared for by compassionate and accomplished professionals.

Disclaimer
The information presented throughout our site is for educational purposes only and is not engaged in rendering medical advice or professional services. The information provided on our website and through our Links should not be used for diagnosing or treating a health problem or a disease. It is not a substitute for professional care. If you have or suspect you may have a health problem, you should consult a health care provider.

Privacy and Our Clinic

Privacy and Our Clinic

What do we do to protect your privacy?

Your privacy is as important to us as your care and comfort. Our staff is committed to protecting patients’ privacy. Your care is confidential.

At Women’s Health Clinic, Inc., our staff is trained and obliged by a signed agreement to protect your privacy. Our caring staff will not disclose any information relating to a patient. Click here to learn more about our privacy practices.

Do you have a separate entrance and exit?

Yes. The privacy of your identity during your appointment is protected by a separate entrance and exit.

Women’s Health Clinic, Inc.’s facility is designed for your privacy and security. Patients enter the facility through the waiting area and leave using a separate exit.

What is HIPAA?

HIPAA stands for the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996. HIPAA relates to the policies and procedures regarding how health information about you as a patient may be used, disclosed, and accessed.

Women’s Health Clinic, Inc. is committed to maintaining the privacy of your Individually Identifiable Health Information (IIHI). During your care, the records regarding your treatment and services will be held in strict confidentiality according to local, state and federal laws and regulations. Click here for more information about Patient Privacy.

What is an IIHI?

IIHI stands for Individually Identifiable Health Information. Your IIHI includes information about you, as well as the treatment and services that you receive from our abortion clinic or gynecology center. Your IIHI is important for deciding the best course of treatment and care, dispensing prescribed drugs, for consultation with our and other doctors, and for your treatment by other healthcare providers.

Women’s Health Clinic, Inc. will only disclose your IIHI according to the privacy practices we follow and as permitted by local, state and federal laws and regulations. Your trust is important to us. We do all that we can to ensure your privacy and the confidentiality of your care. Click here for more information about Patient Privacy.

Payment for Services

Payment for Services

What forms of payment do we accept?

We accept the following credit cards: Mastercard, Visa, American Express, and Discover. We also accept cash, money orders, and bank-issued cashier’s checks. Due to past collections issues, we are unable to accept personal or corporate checks.

When is payment due?

Payment or insurance fees are due at the time of your services.

What insurance companies do we accept?

If you are insured, please call us with your insurance information. We will call your insurance company on your behalf to appropriately verify your benefits. Within 48 hours, we will contact you to inform you of your co-pays, deductibles and co-insurance fees, if any.

The following companies represent some of the insurance carriers which may provide coverage for abortion:

  • Aetna HMO
  • Aetna PPO
  • Anthem
  • Anthem Healthkeepers
  • Bluecross Blueshield PPO
  • Carefirst Bluecross Blueshield HMO
  • Carefirst Bluecross Blueshield PPO
  • Cigna
  • OneNet PPO
  • United Healthcare
Planning Your Visit

Planning Your Visit

What can I expect?

When you make your appointment, our staff will need to get some information from you about you, your medical history, and your medical requirements. Don’t worry, we will not share this information with anyone else. It is important for our staff to understand your medical history in order to discuss your appropriate options.

Once you have made your appointment, you can expect to be received at our clinic with compassion, respect and understanding. We know this choice may not be an easy choice for you.

At Women’s Health Clinic, Inc., we have created a safe clinic and health center where your dignity, care, and privacy are our top priority.

How do I make an appointment for an abortion?

According to Virginia law, effective July 1, 2020, we are able to offer same-day appointments. The 24-hour waiting period is no longer required. When you call us at Women’s Health Clinic, Inc., our staff will answer all your questions respectfully and make sure you are well-informed and well treated.

How long should I plan for a pregnancy termination appointment?

Non-surgical, or medical abortion, by Abortion Pill (RU-486 or Mifeprex) or Methotrexate usually take an hour.

Appointments for surgical abortions with Local Anesthesia, Intramuscular, and IV Sedation typically take from two to three hours. Some cases may take longer.

We provide several entertainment options for your designated driver in our lobby and waiting room, including movies and magazines. We look forward to your visit.

Who will be my doctor?

The experienced and caring medical staff at Women’s Health Clinic, Inc. includes very skilled Gynecologists specializing in abortion, Doctor of Anesthesiology, Nurse Anesthetist and a full accompany of Nurses and Medical Assistants. Many of our patients find comfort in knowing that they are being cared for by compassionate and accomplished professionals.

Preparing for Your Visit

Preparing for Your Visit

What is the 24 Hour Consent Consultation?

EFFECTIVE – July 1st, 2020:

The Reproductive Health Protection Act will eliminate restrictions on abortion access, such as the mandatory 24-hour waiting period & two visit requirement before individuals can access abortion.

Scheduling your termination will now be an option for any woman to come in to have her procedure or medical abortion done in one appointment.

“Abortion care is essential health care. We’re thrilled that in a time when other states are further restricting access to vital medical services like abortion due to Coronavirus, Virginia is leading the way to become a safe haven for abortion access.” Anna Scholl, Executive Director of Progress Virginia (NARAL – ProChoice Virginia)

Our facility will provide to you:

  1. Full medical explanation of the nature, benefits, risks and alternatives to the abortion procedure.
  2. Understanding that the patient may withdraw consent at any time prior to the performance of the procedure.
  3. The opportunity to speak with the physician who is to perform the abortion so that the physician may answer any questions that the patient may have and provide further information concerning the procedures and protocols.
  4. The probable gestational age of the fetus (how many weeks pregnant) at the time the abortion is to be performed as confirmed by sonogram.
  5. The opportunity to review the printed materials provided from the Department of Health. If the patient has chosen to receive a copy of such materials, this information will be provided prior to any services being done.

Can I eat or drink before a surgical abortion procedure?

  • Do not eat or drink 8 hours prior to your arrival.
  • Do not chew gum or suck on candy.
  • All medications normally taken in the morning can be taken with a ½ cup of water.

If you are Diabetic:

  • Diabetic patients are required to have first appointments in the morning.
  • Call in advance and inform us of any medication or insulin you must take in the morning of surgery.
  • Take your blood glucose level in the morning and inform us of the results at the time of your appointment.
  • Please bring in your insulin, diabetic medications and glucose meter.

Your care is very important to us. Please contact us for complete instructions or changes to your appointment.

What else should I do prior to my appointment for a surgical abortion?

  1. Do not eat or drink 8 hours prior to your arrival.
  2. Do not chew gum or suck on candy.
  3. All medications normally taken in the morning can be taken with a ½ cup of water.  
  4. Take a cleansing shower.
  5. Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing, socks and shoes. No flip-flops, heels or sandals please.
  6. Do not wear jewelry.
  7. Bring your photo ID & insurance card (if applicable).
  8. Minors must have documents which include state and federal issued photo i.d., date of birth and documents that list parent or guardian. Parent/guardian must have state and federal issued photo identification.
  9. Bring any medications you are currently taking or should have in case of medical need, such as an inhaler for asthma attacks Please inform us of medical conditions and medications you are taking when you call for your appointment.
  10. Bring your preferred form of payment from our Payment for Services List.
  11. Come with someone you trust, who will drive you home and help take care of you. You cannot drive until 24 hours after surgery. Please leave all valuables at home or with your driver.
  12. Other patients may be sensitive to children and infants, if possible, please leave them at home with a trusted person.

The staff at Women’s Health Clinic, Inc. encourages you to follow our patient instructions with diligence. Not following your patient’s instructions may cause your appointment to be rescheduled. If you have any questions about your instructions, please contact us at your convenience.

Birth Control

Birth Control

What is Birth Control?

Birth Control is used to deliberately prevent or reduce the likelihood of pregnancy. Different methods of birth control have varying characteristics. Condoms, for example, are the only birth control method that provide significant protection from sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). Birth Control is also known as Contraception.

At Women’s Health Clinic, Inc., we want you to be informed so you can make better decisions about your body, health and life.

Does douching immediately following intercourse act as contraception?

Douching immediately following intercourse is not an effective Birth Control method.

Is toothpaste a contraceptive?

Toothpaste is not a contraceptive.

Does urinating after sex prevent pregnancy?

Urinating after sex is not Birth Control. However, it may prevent urinary tract infections.

Does having sex in a hot tub prevent pregnancy?

Having sex in a hot tub is not Birth Control. It may also increase your risk of vaginal infection.

What are my Birth Control options?

Common Birth Control Methods include the following:

  • Birth Control Pills
  • The NuvaRing®
  • The Patch®
  • IUD – Copper T and Mirena®
  • DMPA “DEPO” (“the shot”)
  • Tubal Ligations
  • Cycle Beads, Natural Cycle Rhythm, Condoms
  • Diaphragms
  • Plan B (Emergency Contraception)

There are several factors to consider when deciding which method of birth control is best for you. Your overall health, age, frequency of sexual intercourse, the number of partners you have must all be considered before deciding upon a birth control method.

At Women’s Health Clinic, Inc., we encourage you to make an appointment to discuss your Birth Control options with you.

Manufacturer Resources

Birth Control Pills & Patch

Loestrin 24
Ortho Evra patch
Yaz
Yasmin
Ortho Tri-Cyclen Lo
Seasonique

Vaginal Ring

NuvaRing

Injection

Depo-Provera

Intrauterine System

Mirena
Paragard

Disclaimer
The information presented throughout our site is for educational purposes only and is not engaged in rendering medical advice or professional services. The information provided on our website and through our Links should not be used for diagnosing or treating a health problem or a disease. It is not a substitute for professional care. If you have or suspect you may have a health problem, you should consult a health care provider.

What Are Your Options?
What Are Your Options?

What is Pregnancy?

Pregnancy is a normal condition in the reproductive cycle of a woman’s life. Having a child growing inside you can be an exciting and happy event. But it can also be an unexpected and unwanted event. Childbirth typically occurs about 38 weeks after conception.

The beginning of pregnancy may be detected in a number of ways, including various pregnancy tests which detect hormones generated by the newly-formed placenta. Clinical blood and urine tests can detect pregnancy soon after implantation, which is as early as 6-8 days after fertilization. Blood pregnancy tests are considered to be more accurate than urine tests. Home pregnancy tests are personal urine tests, which normally cannot detect a pregnancy until at least 12-15 days after fertilization.

An early sonogram can determine the age of the pregnancy fairly accurately. In practice, doctors typically express the age of a pregnancy (i.e. an “age” for an embryo) in terms of “menstrual date” based on the first day of a woman’s last menstrual period, as the woman reports it. Unless a woman’s recent sexual activity has been limited, she has been charting her cycles, or the conception is as the result of some type of fertility treatment (such as IUI or IVF) the exact date of fertilization is unknown.

At Women’s Health Clinic, Inc., we believe that getting informed is the first step in preparing yourself to make an intelligent and ethical choice about having a baby, terminating a pregnancy, or preventing pregnancy.

What is Birth Control?

Birth Control is used to deliberately prevent or reduce the likelihood of pregnancy. Different methods of birth control have varying characteristics. Condoms, for example, are the only birth control method that provides significant protection from sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). Birth Control is also known as Contraception.

At Women’s Health Clinic, Inc., we want you to be informed so you can make better decisions about your body, health, and life. 

What is an abortion?

In the event of unwanted pregnancy, a woman has the right to choose to voluntarily end her pregnancy. An unwanted pregnancy can be terminated by surgical or non-surgical means, such as the Abortion Pill or Methotrexate Injection. Surgical procedures are administered with anesthesia (IV Sedation, Intramuscular or Local).

At Women’s Health Clinic, Inc., we provide surgical and non-surgical pregnancy termination services for women with unwanted, early-term pregnancies. Our abortion clinic provides these services with understanding, care, and confidentiality. The doctors and staff at Women’s Health Clinic, Inc. support your informed decision without judgment. Click here to learn more.

Are there alternative choices to abortion?

An alternative to abortion for an unwanted child is adoption. There are two types of adoptions — open and closed. With open adoption, the birth mother, and possibly the birth father, knows something about the adoptive parents. They might even meet and exchange names or addresses. In a closed adoption, the birth mother and adoptive parents do not meet each other or know each other’s names. We recommend the website The Adoption Guide at www.theadoptionguide.com for more information.

The Virginia Department of Health, Division of Women’s and Infants’ Health at www.vahealth.org/wih has important information for educating young adults about the benefits of having children within marriage and educating young parents about raising healthy babies.

Alexandria Women's Health Clinic

(703) 370-0550

 2616 Sherwood Hall Ln. Suite 307 Alexandria, VA 22306-3154

  • Monday-Friday: 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM
  • Saturdays: 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM
  • Sunday: Closed

Alexandria Women’s Health Clinic is an abortion clinic offering abortion services including abortion pills and abortions. We service the following areas Alexandria, Richmond, Arlington, Centreville, Dale City, Reston, Harrisonburg, Leesburg, Mclean, Charlottesville, Tuckahoe, Ashburn, Manassas, Lake Ridge, Burke, Annandale, Mechanicsville, Linton Hall, Oakton, Oak Hill, Springfield, West Falls Church, Fredericksburg, Winchester, Sterling, Short Pump, Herndon, Fairfax, South Riding, Baileys Crossroads, Chantilly, Lincolnia, West Springfield, Culpeper, Tysons Corner, Montclair, Lorton, Meadowbrook, Franconia, Idylwood, Laurel, Bon Air, Vienna, Buckhall, Sudley, Wolf Trap, Fort Hunt, Cherry Hill, Hyblalley, Highland Springs, Great Falls, Merrifield, Front Royal, Bull Run, East Highland Park, Glen Allen, Groveton, Falls Church, Kings Park West, Brandermill, Newington, Mount Vernon, Broadlands, Fairfax Station, Dranesville, Lakeside, Sugarland Run, Gainesville, Huntington, Lowes Island, Warrenton, Countryside, Lake Monticello, Brambleton, Wyndham, Rosslyn, Lake Barcroft, Seven Corners, Purcellville, Bristow, Dunn Loring, Woodburn, Floris, Triangle, Greenbriar, New Baltimore, West Gate, Montrose, Dumbarton, Hollymead, Ashland, Sandston, Yorkshire, Independent Hill, North Springfield, Strasburg, Mantua, Fort Belvoir, Laurel Hill and surrounding areas.

Website & SEO By: Partners For Choice

(703) 370-0550