Gynecology & Obstetrics
Gynecology & Obstetrics, also known as, OB/GYN is a field of medicine that specializes in related female reproductive organs and the management of associated medical conditions, including: vaginal and pelvic health, along with female disorders, obstetrics, infertility, fetal development medicine, female reconstructive surgery, gynecologic oncology, endocrinology, and female hormone management, such as for menopause and birth control.
What is a Gynecologist or Obstetrician?
Gynecologist and Obstetrician are both medical physicians and surgical specialists that form one medical specialty. To become Gynecologist and Obstetrician in the U.S., a student must complete four years of college and earn their medical degree (M.D. or D.O). Thereafter, they continue on with residency programs for four years (others continue may require a longer term in schooling, depending upon the country). Select Gynecologists and Obstetricians accept Fellowships to continue their education in a sub-specialty area which may involve clinical and research activities for up to four years, respectively. A select number of Gynecologists and Obstetricians participate in continuing medical education courses on an ongoing basis to be kept abreast of changes and further advance skill in specific areas, such as, Infertility Medicine or Robotic Surgery for Hysterectomy. Those who sub-specialize may become Board-certified by the American Board of Obstetrics or Gynecology or the American Osteopathic Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology following a ACGME or AOA-accredited residency program and after obtaining a Certificate of Added Qualifications (CAQ); both of which requires an examination. In order to obtain hospital privileges in the U.S., Gynecologists and Obstetricians must have their skills for the core procedures successfully reviewed by peers. Certain Obstetricians do not focus on any other area in their practice in the U.S.
In the U.S, this medical specialty has thrived through changes to help ensure that the former shortage of Obstetricians has been relieved in the U.S. This may be due, in part, to the shift in requirements for education, the advent of infertility medicine which is often associated with elective fee for service options that may leverage the opportunity for sustainability and growth in practice development, as well as, other elective fee for service offerings.
Obstetrics and Gynecology Health and Treatment
A female’s first visit to a Gynecologist may be at the commencement of the first menstrual cycle or earlier if a child is suffering from a medical condition, such as that which may require reconstructive surgery. Thereafter, annual visits for a pelvic exam, pap smear and breast exam are traditional to screen for disease, predict the risk for disease and treat diseases as early as possible which is associated with an enhanced outcome for select conditions, such as cervical cancer. Consultations with a Gynecologist and Obstetrician may be required, when necessary.
Gynecological Conditions
There are many types of medical conditions that relate to female organs and the reproductive system. With the extensive training of Gynecologists and Obstetricians, many are members of an esteemed group who are equipped with the skills to appropriately diagnose, treat or be involved in the treatment plan for medical conditions commonly associated with women and the reproductive system. Some of the more common medical conditions affecting women are, as follows.
- Uterine Bleeding
- Ectopic Pregnancy
- Gestational Diabetes
- Postpartum Depression
- Pregnancy
- Abortion
- Pre-Menopause and Menopause
- Vaginal Infections
OB/GYN Treatments
OB/GYN Treatments may be highly individualized, depending on the condition, the physician’s preference, and your preference after being presented with all options. The good news is that Obstetricians and Gynecologists specialize in some of the latest, safe and effective modes of treatment to optimize care for women today.
OB/GYN Forums: Here, we bring you some of the latest data on select gynecological conditions.
Connection: Pelvic Pain and the Pill
Robotic Surgery for Hysterectomy: What’s The Advantage?
Special Focus Areas:
Female Vaginal and Pelvic Health, as well as, Reconstructive Surgery offers encompassing care for lower urinary tract disorders, pelvic floor conditions, and other female conditions within the reproductive organs. Urologists may also focus on specific female conditions, such as UPJ Obstruction and UTI.
Obstetrics and Infertility Medicine focuses on maternal care before, during and after pregnancy, as well as, fetal care. Infertility medicine specializes in infertility diagnosis and treatment.
Gynecologic Oncology is dedicated to the diagnosis of gynecologic cancer, treatment and management of complications with the goal to optimize the chance for the survival of the woman.
Endocrinology and Female Hormone Management focuses on the management of gynecological conditions affecting the glands that regulate hormones. Those who specialize in Infertility Medicine may be more likely to focus on Endocrinology in the U.S.
What are Options for Covering the Costs for Gynecological Preventative Health, Conditions and Treatment?
Gynecological preventative health screenings will be free in the U.S under Affordable Care Act provisions. The type of insurance you select once the new insurance plans are presented on October 1, 2013 in accordance with The Affordable Care Act will also influence your out of pocket costs for managing a condition. Generally, costs for conditions and treatment will vary, depending upon your geographic location, the type of condition you have, treatment you select, and your physician’s fees.
It is important to recognize that medications and medical procedures are associated with benefits and risks that should be discussed with your physician. It is important to recognize that all information contained on this website cannot be considered to be specific medical diagnosis, medical treatment, or medical advice. As always, you should consult with a physician regarding any medical condition.
