Gynecologic Health

Menstrual issues
Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI) evaluation, testing and treatment
- Contraception counseling and prescriptions : oral contraceptive pills, vaginal rings, patches, depo-provera injections*
- We do not place IUDs or Nexplanon, but referral is available
Emergency Contraception*
Pregnancy testing and referrals for management (pregnancy care and abortion)
Referrals to Gynecology for annual exams/Pap smears, IUDs/Nexplanon, and complex gynecologic problems

*SHIP provides certain medications like contraception and emergency contraception at no cost. More information can be found online via Aetna. Please make an appointment to obtain a prescription.

Emergency Contraception

Levonorgestrel, the generic name for emergency contraception, is an over the counter medication that can be taken within 72 hours of unprotected sexual intercourse to prevent pregnancy. The pregnancy rate is 2.6% after taking levonorgestrel as directed. It is also moderately effective if used within 5 days of unprotected sexual intercourse. This medication may not work as well in individuals who have a Body Mass Index of > 30. If your BMI is over 30, a prescription medication may be a better option.

You should not take levonorgestrel if you are allergic to this medication.

Levonorgestrel may interact with other medications that you might be taking. Please check with your medical provider if you have any questions about potential interactions.

Levonorgestrel works by thickening cervical mucus which prevents sperm movement and survival, by inhibition of ovulation, and by altering the endometrium to prevent implantation.

A pregnancy test is NOT required prior to taking levonorgestrel.

Levonorgestrel should not be used for routine contraception and is not effective in terminating existing pregnancies.

Routine contraception may be started immediately after taking levonorgestrel, however a barrier method is needed for 7 days.

If you would like to speak to a medical provider about taking emergency contraception, or if you would like to start routine contraception after taking emergency contraception, please contact:

202-994-5300 to speak with a medical provider during the Student Health Center’s normal business hours, or
202-994-5300 to speak with a nurse triage line for after hours advice, or
Contact Academic Live Care to make a free appointment with a clinician by telehealth 24/7 to discuss your concerns. Instructions on how to use ALC are available here.
Check with your insurance for OB/GYN practices in the area who accept your insurance. SHC can send you a list of local providers who take Aetna, as well as many other insurance plans. You would need to check with your insurance for coverage.

Local Pregnancy Resources

The SHC refers to local OB/GYN specialists for pregnancy care, whether a student is seeking expectant management or whether a student chooses to have an abortion.

We encourage students to call the SHC for guidance. Clinicians are available to speak to you by telephone, by telehealth or in person, at no cost. An SHC clinician is able to help you coordinate your care in a timely manner.

Washington, D.C.

Maryland

Virginia

Falls Church Healthcare Center