Chances are, you’ve heard the term OB/GYN countless times, and for most of us, it feels almost natural to assume both these terms cover the same areas of expertise. Still, there are some clear differences between obstetrics and gynecology, and knowing them can help you find the kind of medical assistance you need the most.
This is why our experts in obstetrics and gynecology in South Miami, Florida, created this article: to help women understand what women’s healthcare specialist they should visit based on their concerns and goals so as not to end up scheduling an appointment with the wrong physician.
So, what is obstetrics? What is gynecology? This article’s here to help patients make more informed choices regarding their health-related goals and needs.
What Is Gynecology?
For the most part, most people use the terms gynecology and obstetrics almost interchangeably, even if there are pretty prevalent differences between the two medical areas.
To put it simply, gynecologists specialize in caring for their female patient’s reproductive health through all life stages. They can offer support, treatment, and care when a patient gets her first period all the way to menopause and the post-menopausal stage as well.
On that end, gynecologists will offer treatments for a variety of conditions that affect a woman’s vaginal health and reproductive system. In essence, they can provide treatments for the medical problems of the following organs:
- Ovaries
- Uterus
- Cervix
- Fallopian tubes
- Vagina
Gynecology specialists will also perform regular screenings pertaining to reproductive health. These tests can include Pap smears, pelvic exams, breast exams, STD testing, and more. For the most part, female patients will also need to visit their gynecologist for procedures like hysterectomies or tubal ligations.
Usually, they will also be able to administer HPV or human papillomavirus shots.
Also, most experts agree that the gynecologist is the professional whose patients will want to go to for advice regarding sexual topics and discussing different sexual practices and potential contraceptive methods. On that end, they can also educate their patients about safe sex and methods to protect themselves from sexually transmitted diseases.
All in all, your gynecologist is the expert to visit if you have any concerns or questions about the female reproductive system and its health when no pregnancy is involved.
Related issues might include:
- Uterine fibroids
- Endometriosis
- Irregular periods
- Ovarian cysts
- Pelvic organ prolapse
- Malignancies of the reproductive system
- Conditions that lead to painful intercourse
- Vaginal infections
- Cervical and vaginal polyps
If you are pregnant, that’s when you’ll need to visit an obstetrician.
What Is Obstetrics?
By reading the section above, you probably have a better grasp of the roles of obstetrics and gynecology.
Obstetrics is a medical area that focuses on medical and surgical care leading up to, during, and after delivering a baby. Simply put, this medical specialty aims to care for and maintain the expecting mother’s health during each stage of maternity, such as:
- Pregnancy
- Labor
- Childbirth
- Postpartum care
Furthermore, obstetricians are the providers who deliver babies. They can also offer different therapies to help patients conceive or get pregnant in the form of different fertility treatments. They can also provide guidance in NICUs or Neonatal Intensive Care Units for mothers who deliver their newborns prematurely.
Ultimately, their goal is to ensure that their patients have healthy pregnancies and deliver healthy babies.
Also, it’s highly recommended to visit an obstetrician if expecting mommies experience complications during their pregnancy. For instance, the following conditions may require their expertise:
- Placenta issues
- Ectopic pregnancy
- Preeclampsia
- Delivery via C-section
- Signs of fetal distress
Even after childbirth, obstetricians are able to help if mothers are experiencing postpartum depression or any other issues pertaining to post-pregnancy.
The Difference Between Obstetrics and Gynecology
As you might suspect, the main difference between a gynecologist and an obstetrician is their area of focus. The latter focuses on pregnancies and pregnant women, while gynecology experts focus on every other area of female health care.
Visiting an OB/GYN
Experts will all agree that the best way to treat potential medical and health issues is by taking the necessary preventative measures.
That’s why providers always recommend finding an OB/GYN or a specialist who focuses both on the areas of obstetrics and gynecology, can cover all female healthcare needs, and schedule a regular checkup once every year.
The OB/GYN will evaluate your health during these appointments and schedule any necessary tests or immunizations. Naturally, these doctors will determine the type of testing you require if they suspect or want to rule out the presence of a specific condition or medical issue.
You can also schedule a pelvic exam with your OB/GYN. Furthermore, they may also recommend other screenings based on your age, health, and previous test results.
Also, women should visit their providers if they notice any significant changes in their reproductive cycle.
For the most part, these changes may include:
- First menstrual cycle
- Pregnancy
- Perimenopause
- Menopause
- Post-menopause
Remember, most changes are normal, but still, scheduling an appointment is vital to rule out anything unusual or unexpected.
Lastly, patients should also visit their provider if they are experiencing pain while urinating or having intercourse.
Assessing Reproductive Goals
You can also schedule a consultation with an expert specializing in obstetrics and gynecology to discuss your reproductive goals. These may include:
- Consultation on safe sex tips
- Sterilization
- Contraception
- Birth control
- Vaccinations
- Treatment for painful intercourse
- Pregnancy planning
- Urinary tract infections
- Addressing problems with abnormal vaginal discharge
- Prenatal care
- Infertility treatments
On that end, you should also let your provider know if you are experiencing any changes; for instance, you might feel pain during or before menstruation.
On the other hand, if you are dealing with menopause, you can discuss management and treatment options for symptoms like low sex drive, bone loss, or hot flashes. A prepared and experienced OB/GYN will be able to help with different treatment methods, such as hormone replacement therapy, among others.
Obstetrics and Gynecology: Differences Recap
As you might have guessed, the main difference between the two medical areas is that primary obstetrics focuses on pregnancy and childbirth. In contrast, gynecology focuses on a woman’s overall reproductive health.
If you work closely with an expert who’s specialized in both these areas, you will be able to discuss topics pertaining to your reproductive health and future or planned pregnancy.
Under the Care of Experts
As you can see, working with an expert who profoundly understands both areas can enable you to have complete peace of mind. Even if you are a healthy woman, scheduling yearly checkups is vital in assessing your reproductive health and discovering minor issues that can be treated promptly and successfully.
That said, if you are looking for a team of compassionate, knowledgeable, and experienced professionals, contact us today and schedule your first appointment.