Gynaecology is the name given to the branch of medicine that deals with the health of the female reproductive system. It is the area of medicine that focuses on illnesses that affect girls and women, particularly the diagnosis and treatment of conditions affecting the reproductive system. GYN is a common abbreviation for gynaecology.
Gynaecologists are medical professionals with focus on treating women, particularly with regard to their reproductive systems. They deal with things like fertility abnormalities, hormone imbalances, pregnancy, menstruation, childbirth, etc. Gynaecologists typically use a tool called a speculum to perform a pap smear test to look for any abnormalities in the reproductive system.
Obstetrics is the field of medicine specializing in pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period. The abbreviation of obstetrics is OB.
A specialist in women's care during pregnancy is an obstetrician. They are medical professionals who oversee pregnancies, labours, deliveries, and postpartum care. Women are given comprehensive care by obstetricians throughout their pregnancies. A primary responsibility of an obstetrician is:
- Prenatal testing and routine ultrasounds to keep an eye on your health and the health of your unborn child.
- advice on medicine and food.
- Deliver your baby.
- Assist in overcoming any problems, including as body aches and morning sickness.
Obstetrics is concerned with the care given during pregnancy, childbirth, and the period immediately following delivery, whereas gynaecology deals with the medical treatment of women's health conditions. Both vaginal birth and caesarean sections are carried out by an obstetrician. A gynaecologist treats conditions affecting the reproductive organs, such as vaginal or uterine infections, infertility problems, etc.
Obstetrician-gynaecologists are doctors who specialise in both obstetrics and gynaecology. They are also known as OB/GYNs or OB-GYNs. A doctor with competence in both childbirth and treating problems of the female reproductive system is known as an OB GYN. They are skilled surgeons who carry out a variety of operations, such as caesarean sections, surgery to repair pelvic organ injuries, removal of fibroids and cysts, and many more. An OB/GYN will also carry out routine ultrasounds, pap smear exams, infertility treatments, addressing urinary problems, etc.
Dr. Meghana & team have vast experience & expertise in conventional & robot assisted gynaecological, Gynae – urological & Gynae – Oncological Surgeries.
Gynaecologists do conduct a range of surgeries, yes. Several frequent gynaecologic procedures include:
- Cyst removal from the ovaries.
- Removal of uterine fibroids.
- Surgery to treat gynaecological cancers include ovarian, uterine, and cervical cancer.
- The surgical removal of a woman's uterus, ovaries, or other reproductive organs.
Gynaecologists can also do additional procedures to aid them in looking into the uterus and urinary tract for any abnormalities.
OBs or OB/GYNs deliver babies alongside the rest of the care team.
Girls should ideally visit a gynaecologist for the first time between the ages of 13 and 15. It can just be a basic conversation to let you know what to anticipate from your next appointments. Gynaecologists should be seen annually for a check-up and any other time there is a potentially serious problem.
Following are a few things you should avoid doing before your gynaecologist appointment:
- Avoid using contraceptive gels since they could negatively impact the outcomes of the tests.
- Don't engage in sexual activity the night before.
- No matter how little you think the problem may be, avoid self-diagnosis and self-treatment.
- Schedule your visit outside of your menstrual cycle, although this is entirely up to you.
- Pre-appointment pelvic grooming should be avoided.
- Although feeling anxious is normal, try to relax and find comfort.
- Make a list of the questions you want to ask.
- Obtain family medical history information.
- Don't be ashamed to talk about your private details.
It is best to be open with your gynaecologist, without holding anything back.
The doctor and you may only speak to one another at the initial visit. This will also establish a timetable for your subsequent appointments and the doctor's recommendations for how to stay healthy and, if necessary, take safeguards. To better understand your situation, the doctor may ask you a number of questions about your health and any current medical conditions. Occasionally, a few tests are also performed during the initial appointment itself that helps in ascertain the diagnosis.
Yes. Men occasionally consult gynaecologists for help with their infertility issues, treatment for STDs and infections, or issues relating to their sexual health.
However, uroandrologist are the medical professionals who focus on the sexual and reproductive health of males. Additionally, they identify and handle both male and female urinary tract diseases.
There isn't a right or wrong moment, but ideally, you should schedule your initial OB/GYN appointment between 6 and 12 weeks into your pregnancy. However, based on your health conditions, your doctor will advise you when to visit. Some of the elements that could lead to more OB/GYN visits include:
- Having reached the age of 35
- Having a health issue that already exists
- Pelvic discomfort or vaginal haemorrhage
- Signs of preterm labor (Pain & Bleeding before the EDD)