OB/GYN, or obstetrics & gynecology, is a specialty of medicine that focuses primarily on the female reproductive system. OB-GYNs (obstetrics and gynecology) are medical doctors trained to treat women throughout their lives, including puberty, menopause, and beyond. In this article, you will learn what OB/GYNs can do, how they are trained, and what care they provide.
What Exactly Is An OB/GYN Physician?
An OB/GYN doctor is a specialist in female reproductive health. This includes the care of pregnant women and the diagnosis and treatment of a broad range of gynecological ailments.
Obstetricians and Gynecologists are trained to deliver range care, which includes:
- Prenatal health care for a pregnant woman
- Delivery by babies
- Gynecological examinations and screenings
- Diagnosis for gynecological issues, such as fibroids and endometriosis
- Contraception and family planning
- Menopause management
Education and Training
Before they can start practicing medicine, OB/GYNs have to undergo extensive training. OB/GYNs are required to complete these steps in general:
Undergraduate Education
OB/GYNs should have a degree from a four-year college before applying to medical school. While no major is necessary, pre-medical school students usually take mathematics, biology, chemistry, and math courses.
Medical School
After completing a Bachelor’s Degree, aspiring OB/GYNs have to complete medical school. Medical school typically lasts four years. The medical school includes anatomy and physiology, pharmaceuticals, and other medical science courses.
Residency
After graduating from medical college, OB/GYNs must complete a 4-year residency in obstetrics & gynecology. During the residency, physicians are given hands-on training to deliver babies, perform gynecological exams and surgery, and care for pregnant women.
Board Certification
OB/GYNs will become board certified if they pass a certification exam from the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology. Although board certification does not require a physician to practice in a particular field, it can demonstrate their knowledge and expertise.
Types in OB-GYN Treatment
OB/GYNs care for women throughout their entire lives. Some of the common types of OB/GYN care include:
- Prenatal Care
OB/GYNs care for pregnant mothers, providing regular check-ups and testing to monitor their health. OB/GYNs offer guidance on nutrition and lifestyle factors, such as exercise.
- Delivery of Babies
OB-GYNs know how to deliver babies via vaginal delivery and cesarean sections. They can help with pain management during delivery and monitor any complications.
- Gynecological Exams
OB/GYNs can provide regular gynecological checks and screenings. They may include a pelvic examination, Pap test, and breast exam. These exams help diagnose conditions like sexually transmitted illnesses and cervical carcinoma.
- Diagnosis and Treatment of Gynecological Condition
OB/GYNs treat various gynecological diseases, such as fibroids, ovarian cancer, and endometriosis. Treatment options may include surgery, medication, or other interventions.
- Family Planning and Contraceptive Counseling
OB/GYNs offer guidance on family planning methods and contraceptive options. This includes birth control pills (IUDs), intrauterine devices, and other methods.
Conclusion
Maternity and gynecology associates are committed to providing high-quality care and services to our patients. We are proud of our full obstetrics services, including prenatal care and menopause management. Our board-certified physicians specialize in women’s health issues and strive to offer the best possible patient care during every visit. Our locations are conveniently located throughout Maryland. We look forward to being your trusted partner regarding women’s health.