An Obstetrician and Gynecologist (OB-GYN) is a medical doctor who specializes in women's reproductive health, pregnancy, and childbirth. This field combines two related specialties:
-
Obstetrics: Focuses on pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period. Obstetricians care for pregnant women, help deliver babies, and manage any complications related to pregnancy and childbirth.
-
Gynecology: Deals with the health of the female reproductive system, including the uterus, ovaries, fallopian tubes, and vagina. Gynecologists diagnose and treat conditions such as menstrual problems, infertility, infections, and cancers of the reproductive organs.
Key Responsibilities of an OB-GYN:
- Pregnancy and Childbirth Care: Monitoring and managing the health of the mother and baby throughout pregnancy, including prenatal care, labor, and delivery.
- Reproductive Health: Diagnosing and treating issues like menstrual disorders, pelvic pain, and infections.
- Family Planning: Providing contraception counseling, fertility treatments, and help with managing pregnancy.
- Surgical Procedures: Performing surgeries like cesarean sections (C-sections), hysterectomies (removal of the uterus), and laparoscopies for diagnosing and treating conditions.
- Cancer Screenings: Conducting Pap smears, pelvic exams, and breast exams to detect early signs of cancer.
- Menopause Management: Helping women manage symptoms of menopause and postmenopausal care.
Many OB-GYNs practice both obstetrics and gynecology, but some may choose to focus on one area.