Women’s health care had taken a back seat in priorities among aspects of general healthcare for a long time. This resulted in many women lacking the help they needed to deal with these issues. However, women’s care has been prioritized in recent times, as evidenced by the widespread use of women’s care facilities. These facilities have an OB/GYN San Pedro more often than not. What an OB/GYN does is discussed below in detail.
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Who are Gynecologists and Obstetricians?
Obstetricians are medical professionals that put priority on pregnancy and its associated issues. On the other hand, Gynecologists involve themselves in conditions affecting reproductive health. These two professionals often work together. In some cases, the same doctor may be certified in gynecology and obstetrics. These physicians can handle most issues from baby delivery to general reproductive health due to their multiple certifications.
Obstetricians are typically qualified to perform issues such as:
- Pregnancy healthcare
- Fertility treatment
- Cesarean section and vaginal births
- NICU care
- General post-natal care
Gynecologists may also deal with problems that include:
- Breast and cervical cancer screenings
- Reproductive wellness checks
- STI treatment
- Urinary tract problems
- Treatment for uterine conditions
Physicians can perform both sets of duties with both qualifications. Your doctor will advise you or treat the conditions they are qualified for in a while, referring you to specialists if necessary.
Both obstetricians and gynecologists have special training in treating the vagina, uterus, and general reproductive system. They both need to attend medical schools as obstetricians need to specialize in all areas of pregnancy, from prenatal care to after delivery. At the same time, gynecologists involve themselves in learning reproductive system care.
After completion of a degree and medical school, OB/GYN need to finish:
- Certification exam by the American Board of Internal Medicine
- Four to five years doing residency majoring in obstetrics or gynecology specifically
- Certifiable exam for the chosen specialty by the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology
Why should you see an OB/GYN?
Factors like health history, age, and whether you are pregnant may determine how much you see a gynecologist. Some services offered include:
Pregnancy
OB/GYNs are well trained to assist in dealing with issues during pregnancy.
Birth Control
Your lifestyle and health history assist your gynecologist in determining the right contraception while also writing prescriptions if required.
Pap smears
By the time you get to age twenty-one, you should start getting pap smears if you have a cervix. Follow-ups should happen after about every three years. This is a cancer screening that your gynecologist performs.
STDs
Gynecologists assist in identifying, diagnosing, treating, and managing sexually transmitted infections. A gynecologist can check out unusual discharge or uncharacteristic discomfort after sexual intercourse as they determine the cause and solve the issue.
A visit to the OB/GYN typically starts with routine health checks for body vitals, including urine and blood tests. Your health history and subsequent tests help identify the condition.
Most issues affecting women can be dealt with by doctors with combined OB/GYN specialties. This enables them to deal with matters entirely without the need for consultation. Check us out online for any OB/GYN inquiries, or call our San Pedro, CA offices.
