The Obstetrician-Gynecologist (OB/GYN) specialty is dedicated to the comprehensive health of the female reproductive system. This discipline integrates two overlapping areas of practice. Gynecology focuses on the reproductive organs outside of pregnancy, while Obstetrics manages the health of the mother and fetus throughout the gestational period and childbirth. This combined training allows physicians to provide continuous care for women across all stages of life, from adolescence through post-menopause.
Preventative Care and Routine Screening
The annual wellness exam, often called a well-woman visit, forms the foundation of proactive health maintenance. This routine appointment assesses overall health, addresses patient concerns, and ensures age-appropriate screenings are current. The physician conducts a physical assessment, which includes a clinical breast examination to check for unusual masses or changes.
A central component of preventative care is screening for cervical cancer, primarily through the Pap test and Human Papillomavirus (HPV) testing. Guidelines suggest starting Pap testing at age 21, with follow-up intervals ranging from three to five years. For patients age 40 and older, the physician provides counseling and referrals for mammography, the primary imaging tool for breast cancer detection. Wellness visits also provide an opportunity for counseling on lifestyle factors, like bone density management, and screening for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in sexually active patients.
Management of Non-Obstetric Reproductive Health
OB/GYNs provide personalized guidance on non-surgical reproductive health issues, starting with comprehensive contraceptive management. They help patients navigate the wide array of options. The selection of a method involves discussing efficacy, side effects, patient lifestyle, and long-term family planning goals.
Contraceptive Options
- Oral hormonal pills
- Patches
- Rings
- Injections
- Implants
- Various types of intrauterine devices (IUDs)
Diagnosis and medical management of menstrual cycle irregularities are a major focus. For heavy menstrual bleeding (menorrhagia) or painful periods (dysmenorrhea), initial treatments often involve nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or hormonal treatments like combined oral contraceptives. A levonorgestrel-releasing IUD can also reduce excessive blood loss by thinning the uterine lining.
The transition through perimenopause and menopause, characterized by fluctuating hormones, is another area of management. Symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, and vaginal dryness are assessed. Treatment options range from lifestyle adjustments to prescription therapies. Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) is often used for severe vasomotor symptoms, while localized vaginal estrogen treats genitourinary symptoms. Basic fertility assessment is also performed, including a medical history review, pelvic ultrasound, and hormonal blood tests (such as FSH and progesterone levels) to evaluate ovarian function and ovulation timing.
Obstetric Services and Pregnancy Support
Obstetrics provides specialized care during the entire pregnancy journey, from preconception through the postpartum period. Comprehensive prenatal care involves a planned schedule of check-ups to monitor the health of both the mother and the developing fetus. Appointments include routine monitoring of maternal weight, blood pressure, and urine, alongside specialized blood tests and ultrasound screenings to track fetal growth and detect complications.
The OB/GYN manages high-risk pregnancies, which may involve pre-existing maternal conditions (like diabetes or hypertension) or issues arising during pregnancy (such as preeclampsia). Monitoring and intervention ensure the best possible outcomes for these complex cases. For delivery, the physician manages labor, offering expertise in both vaginal delivery and Cesarean section (C-section). Postpartum care addresses physical recovery, emotional well-being, and family planning through a follow-up examination several weeks after delivery.
Surgical Interventions and Advanced Gynecological Care
The OB/GYN is a trained surgeon, performing a wide range of diagnostic and therapeutic procedures for complex gynecological conditions. Common surgical procedures include hysterectomy (removal of the uterus), often recommended for large fibroids, severe endometriosis, or cancer. They also perform myomectomy to remove uterine fibroids while preserving the uterus, which is preferred by patients who wish to maintain fertility.
Many interventions utilize minimally invasive techniques, such as laparoscopy or hysteroscopy. Laparoscopy uses specialized instruments inserted through small incisions and is used for ovarian cyst removal, endometriosis treatment, or tubal ligation. Hysteroscopy allows for the direct visualization and removal of abnormal growths, such as polyps or small fibroids, from the uterine cavity. The specialty also manages pelvic floor disorders, including pelvic organ prolapse and urinary incontinence, frequently utilizing reconstructive techniques to restore function.