What is an OB-GYN?
"OB-GYN" refers to a practitioner (obstetrician-gynecologist) or obstetrics and gynecology medical specialty. An obstetrician-gynecologist is a specialist in women's health. Their focus includes functions unique to female physiology, such as menstruation, childbirth, and menopause.
Some OB-GYNs provide a broad range of general health care services like primary care physicians. They also provide routine medical consultations and preventive breast and cervical cancer screenings.
Obstetrics is the medical branch that deals with surgical and medical care before, during, and after a woman gives birth. Obstetrics primarily concerns a woman's overall health (including nutrition and physical and mental well-being) during pregnancy. It includes the following:
- Pregnancy
- Labor
- Childbirth
- Postpartum Period Care
Gynecology is a specialty that focuses broadly on women's lifelong health. Gynecologists can examine, treat, and monitor their patient's reproductive health, including concerns related to fertility, conception, menstruation, or menopause. They primarily diagnose and treat diseases of the pelvic organs and female reproductive system:
- Vagina
- Uterus
- Ovaries
- Fallopian Tubes
Educational qualifications of OB-GYNs in the U.S. and subspecialties in the field
To become an obstetrician-gynecologist (OB-GYN), aspirants undergo a comprehensive educational and training journey. Here's an in-depth look at the key stages:
1. Bachelor's degree and medical school: The educational journey begins with completing a bachelor's degree and four years of intensive medical school training. This foundational stage lays the groundwork for the medical expertise required in the field.
2. Residency in obstetrics and gynecology: Individuals enter a four-year residency program specializing in obstetrics and gynecology after medical school. This phase is crucial for honing practical skills and gaining in-depth knowledge of reproductive and women's health issues. During their residency, aspirants undergo training under the supervision of seasoned healthcare professionals, commonly within a hospital setting.
3. Specialization and additional training: OB-GYNs may opt for another three years of specialized training post-residency. This phase allows practitioners to concentrate on a specific area within the field, further refining their skills.
4. Specialty board certification exam: The culmination of the educational journey involves passing a specialty board certification exam administered by the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology. This step certifies the practitioner's competence and readiness to practice independently. Here are some prominent specializations within the field of OB-GYN:
- Maternal-fetal medicine: Specializing in the care of patients experiencing high-risk pregnancies, maternal-fetal medicine OB-GYNs focus on managing and addressing complex issues that may arise during pregnancy.
- Reproductive endocrinology and infertility: OB-GYNs in this field are experts in the study and implementation of infertility treatments. They delve into all forms of interventions to assist individuals and couples struggling with fertility issues.
- Gynecologic oncology: Gynecologic oncology OB-GYNs concentrate on diagnosing and treating cancers of the female reproductive system, which comprises the uterus, cervix, ovaries, and vulva.
- Female pelvic medicine and reproductive surgery: OB-GYNs in this field specialize in the intricate understanding of uterine tract and pelvic floor disorders. They address issues like vaginal or urinary tract infections, urinary or fecal incontinence, overactive bladder, bladder pain, and pelvic organ prolapse.
5. Maintenance of certification: OB-GYNs are required to take a maintenance exam every six years.
Common gynecological issues
The following are the most common gynecological problems faced by women of all ages:
- 1. Cervical dysplasia: The vaginal opening leads to the cervix, a part of or the lower portion of the uterus. Cervical dysplasia occurs when cells in and around a woman's cervix are aberrant or precancerous. A Pap test (Pap smear) can reveal cervical dysplasia, and a biopsy can help determine the severity of the condition. Cellular abnormalities might be minimal, moderate, or severe. Nevertheless, cervical dysplasia does not imply that you have cervical cancer. But in the absence of medical intervention, they may turn cancerous.
- 2. Uterine prolapse: Uterine prolapse may occur in women of any age group. The pelvic floor muscles and ligaments may stretch and weaken over time, unable to provide adequate support for the uterus. As a result, the uterus enters or protrudes from the vaginal opening. Postmenopausal women with one or more vaginal births are more likely to be affected in this manner. Mild uterine prolapse does not generally require medical intervention. But, if uterine prolapse causes discomfort or interferes with your daily activities, you might benefit from treatment.
- 3. Polycystic ovarian syndrome: One in every ten women of reproductive age is affected by Polycystic ovary syndrome or PCOS. PCOS causes hormonal irregularities and metabolism problems in women, influencing their overall well-being and appearance. The hormonal imbalance may affect the ovaries and disrupt the regular menstrual cycle. The egg may not develop as usual during ovulation. Infertility can also result from PCOS; however, PCOS is common and treatable.
- 4. Uterine fibroids: Uterine fibroids (also termed leiomyomas) are growths on the uterus wall. They are a form of benign tumor comprising muscles and connective tissue. Fibroids do not always create symptoms, but when they do, they can cause excessive menstrual bleeding, backache, frequent urination, and discomfort during sex. Small fibroids rarely require treatment, while enlarged fibroids may require medication or surgery.
Procedures performed by OB-GYNs
OB-GYN professionals have much experience and knowledge in addressing various diseases affecting women's health. The standard procedures are:
Cesarean delivery, also known as C-section, is a surgical procedure that involves making incisions in both the abdomen and the uterus for safe delivery.
- Instrumental deliveries during childbirth
In an assisted birth (or instrumental delivery), forceps or a ventouse suction cup help deliver the baby. Ventouses and forceps should only be used if necessary for you and your baby. Assisted delivery is less common in women who have previously had a vaginal birth.
A hysterectomy is a surgical intervention that prevents you from getting pregnant by removing the womb (uterus). Irrespective of age, you will no longer get periods — even if you have not previously gone through menopause. A significant number of people choose to undergo a hysterectomy each year. However, it is more common in women between 40 and 50.
- Pelvic organ prolapse surgery
Pelvic organ prolapse (POP) occurs when organs such as the bladder, uterus, or rectum protrude into the vaginal canal.
How can OB-GYNs help with family planning?
Family planning is much more than birth control or contraception. It is about creating a family the way you want it and helping you plan the size of your family. OB-GYNs can help you prevent or prepare for pregnancy as per your family goals.
Pregnancy planning
OB-GYN can help you plan for the healthiest pregnancy by regularly guiding you on the best practices and lifestyle changes for a successful conception. They can suggest the optimal time to take prenatal vitamins as a proactive measure to minimize the risk of neural tube defects. They can help you follow a nutrient-rich diet, review your existing medications, and advise you to pause your alcohol intake and smoking.
OB-GYNs can diagnose and treat any underlying health conditions and improve your chances of natural conception. They can also help you with fertility issues and recommend safe assisted pregnancy options. If you wish to start a family, it is good to visit the OB-GYN to review your reproductive health and check for any underlying issues to prevent pregnancy complications later.
Pregnancy prevention
OB-GYNs can help you prevent pregnancy by suggesting appropriate contraception options. It can help you if you don't want more children or want to avoid unwanted pregnancies. Birth control or contraception is a personal choice, but OB-GYN can help you determine the most suitable contraception method to prevent pregnancy. Temporary pregnancy prevention options include:
- Vaginal rings
- Intrauterine devices
- Birth control pills
- Diaphragms
- Birth control shots
- Hormonal birth control patches
If your family is complete, you can ask the OB-GYN near you for permanent birth control solutions. They will examine your body and suggest safe methods for permanent pregnancy prevention.
Interpregnancy care
A few women may prefer to keep a few years gap between two children. OB-GYNs can help such women with appropriate interpregnancy family planning assistance.
Sometimes, the woman is too weak after the first childbirth, and another pregnancy soon after can be risky for them and the baby. In such cases, the OB-GYN can recommend spacing the pregnancy to allow the woman to recover before another pregnancy. This kind of care is called inter-pregnancy care. It begins during the postnatal stage until the woman is entirely healthy. For instance, in a C-section delivery, the doctor advises the patient to wait for a minimum of 18 months before planning another baby.
Inter-pregnancy care also includes women who have suffered a miscarriage, dilation, and curettage (D&C), and complications during childbirth. In these cases, OB-GYNs first conduct detailed physical examinations to identify safe timelines to plan a pregnancy to minimize the risks and achieve better pregnancy outcomes.
What is a pelvic exam?
A pelvic exam is a physical and visual examination of the female reproductive and sexual organs, typically performed by a gynecologist or OB-GYN. It helps the doctor assess the health of these organs, check for infections, and detect signs of illness.
During the exam, the doctor examines the vulva, vagina, cervix, uterus, ovaries, and fallopian tubes. Pelvic exams are often done during an annual checkup or pregnancy to monitor reproductive health or investigate symptoms like pelvic or lower back pain. The exam can also help identify STIs, yeast infections, or bacterial vaginosis and screen for cancer, especially during a Pap smear.
The procedure begins with the doctor asking about any health concerns. The patient undresses, wears a gown, and lies on an exam table covered with a sheet. The doctor first inspects the vulva for signs of infection or sores. Then, a lubricated speculum is inserted into the vagina to widen it, allowing the doctor to view the cervix and internal organs.
The doctor may advise a Pap smear to collect cells from the cervix and check for abnormalities like cervical cancer. After removing the speculum, the doctor performs a bimanual exam, inserting two fingers into the vagina while pressing on the abdomen to feel for abnormalities. Sometimes, a rectal exam can check for issues behind the uterus.
After the exam, the doctor discusses the findings and may suggest further tests. Pelvic exams during pregnancy are important for detecting abnormalities or infections and assessing cervical health. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists advises pelvic exams at least once a year starting at age 21, though the frequency may differ based on your health.
Choosing the right OB-GYN near you
Taking care of ourselves and our loved ones is always a key priority. When selecting an OB-GYN, we all look for skill and expertise. At the same time, empathy and friendliness can go a long way in promoting open communication. These are necessary for our practitioner to provide us with the best treatment options for our problems.
Zocdoc is at the forefront of delivering healthcare to underserved communities. Our guiding principle is an uncompromising attitude to accessible healthcare for all.
Our provider profile includes credentials, clinical experience, consumer comments, and ratings. As a result, you can make an informed decision before booking an in-person or online appointment. For most of us, finding suitable doctors is a complicated undertaking. But with Zocdoc, you can find the top-rated OB-GYN in your vicinity within seconds.
If you need assistance finding OB-GYNs who accept your insurance, our online patient help center is here to help. Through Zocdoc, you can link your medical, dental, and vision insurance plans to your account, though you can use only one insurance plan per appointment.
You can add your secondary insurance details in the appointment notes for those with multiple insurance plans. Additionally, if your healthcare provider uses Zocdoc's Intake forms, you can include your secondary insurance information there as well.
Always let your OB-GYN know if you have any health-related anxiety so they can put you at ease and make your visit as pleasant as possible. Booking appointments with OB-GYNs near you on Zocdoc is safe, quick, and free!
Obstetrics and gynecology in Atlanta
According to quantitative data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Georgia's maternal mortality rate increased considerably between 2013 and 2017. According to the 2017 data, the maternal mortality rate in Georgia (66.3 deaths per 100,000 live births) is almost twice that of the national average (29.6 deaths per 100,000 live births).
Historically, there has been a huge disparity in the availability of OB-GYNs and maternal care in Georgia. In 2010, Amnesty International ranked Georgia as the state with the highest maternal mortality rate in the United States. Residents of the state have struggled to access adequate medical services in the absence of proper insurance coverage. The availability of obstetrics and gynecologists in the rural counties is also scarce.
Sources
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Mayo Clinic
Office on Women's Health
Cleveland Clinic
American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists
Gynecology and Obstetrics Medical Group
Georgia Academy of Family Physicians
State of Georgia: House of Representatives
Grady Newsource
Healthline
MedicalNewsToday
