Women experiencing concerns with their reproduction cycle usually visit either a gynecologist or an obstetrician. Gynecology and obstetrics practices help assess and understand a woman’s reproductive health, but they differ in several ways. Here are some similarities and differences between gynecology and obstetrics:
Scope
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Gynecology deals with reproductive health, specifically the uterus, ovaries, and fallopian tubes. A gynecologist examines these organs periodically to determine the causes of irregular menstrual cycles and offers guidance on using contraceptives. Experts can also diagnose and treat conditions such as polycystic ovarian syndrome, endometriosis, and ovarian cysts.
Obstetrics focuses on a woman’s pregnancy cycle and childbirth. They monitor embryo and fetal growth, pregnancy health, and childbirth complications. Professionals offset challenges brought by complications like gestational diabetes and preeclampsia that affect a mother and the pregnancy’s safety. They also respond to conditions like ectopic pregnancies.
Procedures and Specialties
Gynecology and obstetrics use similar procedures to evaluate a woman’s reproductive and pregnancy health. These procedures include pap smears and colposcopies to identify abnormal cells and ultrasounds to diagnose abnormal uterine growth and track fetal development. Obstetrics and gynecology treatments like endometrial ablation resolve abnormal uterine bleeding.
Though procedures are similar, these doctors focus on different subspecialties. Gynecologists prioritize challenges with female health. Obstetricians enable women to receive remedies for maternal and fetal health issues. Some subspecialties for each include:
Gynecology Subspecialties
Gynecologists can specialize in treating different demographics, including pediatric and adolescent or menopausal and geriatric. Pediatric and adolescent gynecology focuses on reproductive issues in teens and young adults. Specialists help patients navigate puberty, menstrual disorders, and congenital abnormalities. Menopausal and geriatric gynecology focuses on older adults and transitioning women through pre- and post-menopausal problems.
A gynecologist may also focus on gynecological oncology, female pelvic medicine, or reconstructive surgery. Gynecological oncology addresses cancer growth in the reproductive organs. Cervical, uterine, and ovarian cancers are best treated with early detection, management, and treatment. A gynecologist’s specialized care enables women suffering from these cancers to recover faster and receive post-treatment assessment and supervision. Specialists in female pelvic medicine and reconstructive surgery diagnose pelvic diseases and surgery interventions for these issues.
Obstetrics Specialties
Obstetricians may specialize in maternal-fetal medicine, focusing on high-risk pregnancies. They find ways to guard the mother’s and child’s safety during pregnancy complications, which often arise from preterm labor, placental irregularities, and fetal growth difficulties. Specializations in reproductive endocrinology and infertility concentrate on hormonal imbalances affecting the menstrual cycle and fertility. Practitioners usually offer remedies like in vitro fertilization and hormonal therapy. Obstetricians also provide services and support during childbirth, including natural deliveries or cesarean sections. They monitor labor and birth progress, intervening when women face anomalies during birth, such as breech presentations and prolonged labor.
Visit a Gynecologist and Obstetrician
Many women’s health issues and reproductive concerns create an overlap in treatment from gynecologists and obstetricians. Physicians who combine both services are called OBGYNs and can address all aspects of women’s reproductive health. Review your symptoms and concerns when selecting a doctor to determine if their specialties align with your needs. Contact a gynecologist, obstetrician, or OBGYN today to schedule a routine consultation.
