Reedsburg Area Medical Center Health

The Truth About Obstetrics and Gynecology: How They Differ

Many people are under the impression that Obstetrics and Gynecology are the same thing and can be used interchangeably. Although these terms are often used together for women's reproductive health care, there is a huge difference between the two.

As women age, they experience changes in their reproductive health that will require a different specialization. Understanding the difference between an obstetrician and a gynecologist can help a woman make a more informed decision depending on their health care needs at a specific time.

What is Obstetrics?

Obstetrics is a medical field focused on caring for pregnant women and their babies during pregnancy, labor, delivery, and the postpartum period - the period 4 to 6 weeks after giving birth. The person in charge of this field is called an obstetrician.

Women experience major shifts in their hormones and body functions during pregnancy that may place them at risk of certain conditions. These conditions can include

• Preeclampsia
• Potential miscarriages
• Vaginal bleeding
• Ectopic pregnancy
• Nausea
• Anemia
• Gestational diabetes
• Signs of infection after giving birth
• Muscle pains
• Edema
• Certain complications relating to the women's placenta

The obstetrician's goal is to ensure that the pregnant mother and her child pass through the whole pregnancy period and childbirth safely and healthily or at least with minimal problems. Additionally, they also work with other hospital staff to ensure the continued welfare of mothers and their babies after giving birth. Obstetricians specializing in high-risk pregnancies can provide more comprehensive care to their patients. 

Obstetricians also play a crucial part in providing treatments to help make pregnancy more successful, such as fertility drug prescriptions or surgery.

Lastly, obstetricians care for the whole well-being of the mother, not just those physical concerns. Most pregnant and postpartum women experience psychological challenges partly due to hormonal effects and major role changes; therefore, it is the obstetrician's job to provide help in dealing with these challenges.

What is Gynecology?

Gynecology is a field of study concentrated in female reproductive health. A gynecologist is a specialist who oversees the woman's reproductive health from the time of her first menstrual period up to the post-menopausal stage.

Gynecologists also help in the diagnosis, management, and treatment of any conditions arising within the female reproductive organs such as the uterus, cervix, vagina, fallopian tubes, and external genitalia.

Some of the conditions that gynecologists treat include;

• Menstrual complications.
• Uterine fibroids.
• Urinary difficulties. 
• Problems surrounding the reproductive system such as infertility and STIs.
• Certain pelvic cancers, including Pelvic inflammatory disease. 
• Ovary inflammation.
• Paratubal Cyst.

Gynecologists also perform recommended screenings, including breast and pelvic exams, pap smears, and annual wellness checks to detect early signs of serious conditions. They also conduct tubal ligations or hysterectomies (removal of the uterus). A gynecologist also provides HPV vaccination for the prevention of cervical cancer due to HP Virus. 

Gynecologists are also medical professionals qualified to provide advice on sexual matters. In addition, they can help patients with responsible practices such as contraceptives, protection against sexually transmitted diseases, and all other general issues revolving around female reproductive health.

What is an OB/GYN?

OB/Gyns are physicians who provide further specialized care for patients. They can offer their expertise in obstetrics and gynecology, allowing them to act flexibly and accordingly when dealing with the woman's reproductive health care needs.

Final thoughts

Generally speaking, if you have any questions or concerns about female reproductive health and are not pregnant, it is best to consult a gynecologist. Otherwise, if you are pregnant and in need of medical care explicitly related to pregnancy and childbirth, then an obstetrician will be the one who can help.

Reedsburg Area Medical Center offers comprehensive obstetric and gynecologic care for women. Our team of specialists provides compassionate care in a comfortable setting. In addition, we provide various services to meet your needs, including prenatal care, childbirth education, and treatment for menopause and other women's health issues. Please consult with our medical experts and book an appointment today to stay healthy and informed.

References:

https://www.cdc.gov/

https://www.niehs.nih.gov/

https://www.who.int/

https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/