Who is an OB-GYN?
An obstetrician-gynecologist, also known as an OB-GYN, focuses on women's reproductive health and diagnosing and treating disorders that impact menstruation, pregnancy, delivery, pelvic floor, and reproductive organs. They conduct patient interviews, write prescriptions, perform invasive and non-invasive procedures, and work in clinical labs.
OB-GYNs can advise patients on tests or treatments such as blood testing, mammograms, ultrasounds, pap smears, and pelvic exams. They can also diagnose illnesses and provide cancer screenings on patients. Furthermore, OB-GYNs assist women in making informed decisions about their reproductive health. They can create specialized treatment regimens based on the needs and preferences of their patients. OB-GYNs can work in various settings, including clinical settings, hospital units, daycare centers, educational institutions, and surgical centers.
Education and training of an OB-GYN
A prospective OB-GYN must complete four years of medical school, studying the various aspects of women's health and reproductive difficulties. They then sign up for a residency program that lasts at least three years, with some programs lasting a maximum of five years.
Throughout this period, they participate in rotations in various areas of medicine, such as gynecologic oncology, reproductive endocrinology, ultrasonography, and obstetrics. They also undergo primary and preventive care training.
After completing their education, aspirants must undergo a two-step certification process with the ABOG (American Board of Obstetrics & Gynecology). Some OB-GYNs may decide to continue their education and pursue a fellowship in a subspecialty.
What are the OB-GYN specialty areas?
Obstetrics and gynecology is a vast and diverse field. While some OB-GYNs focus on a single specialty, others care for various reproductive health concerns.
The following are the seven recognized subspecialties of obstetrics and gynecology:
- Maternal-fetal medicine: Doctors specializing in this field address issues related to the health of the mother and unborn child and help manage pregnancy-related problems.
- Reproductive endocrinology and infertility: These OB-GYNs assess and manage hormonal imbalances and fertility issues.
- Hospice and palliative medicine: These professionals treat patients with severe medical conditions. They devise treatment plans to improve quality of life while reducing pain and suffering.
- Gynecologic oncology: Doctors specializing in this field provide the finest treatment to patients with gynecologic cancers.
- Female pelvic medicine and reconstructive surgery: These doctors offer surgical therapy to females with pelvic floor problems.
- Critical care medicine: After receiving their specialty in critical care medicine, doctors can diagnose, treat, and assist seriously ill and injured patients.
- Complex family planning: Medical professionals training in this specialty treat patients requiring complex abortion and contraception. They often consult with other medical professionals to offer the best possible care.
What procedures do OB-GYNs perform?
OB-GYNs can perform a range of procedures to treat various conditions related to reproductive health. These can encompass surgical and non-surgical interventions tailored to the specific needs of their patients.
Surgical procedures may involve dilation and curettage, biopsies, or more complex surgeries like hysterectomies (removal of uterus) and myomectomies (removal of fibroids). They may also go for tubal ligations for female sterilization or employ laser surgery when needed.
OB-GYNs play a crucial role during pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period as well, where they provide services such as in vitro fertilization, vaginal and cesarean deliveries, and amniocentesis for prenatal diagnosis.
In addition, conducting routine preventive tests and screenings, such as pelvic exams, pap smears, clinical breast exams, and mammographies, is within the OB-GYN's scope of work.
What is a pelvic exam?
In a pelvic exam, a doctor visually and physically assesses a woman's reproductive organs, including the vagina, cervix, fallopian tubes, vulva, ovaries, and uterus. This comprehensive process detects potential abnormalities or conditions such as cancer or infections. While there are no strict guidelines for how often a woman should undergo a pelvic exam, experts generally recommend having one annually, starting around the age of 21 or earlier, if specific health concerns arise.
Before scheduling an appointment for a pelvic exam, ensure you are not menstruating. Moreover, avoid vaginal intercourse or douching for at least 24 hours prior and communicate any concerns or discomfort to the healthcare provider.
During the procedure, the patient must undress and wear a robe. The doctor will then ask them to lie on a table with their legs on footrests, known as stirrups. The visual inspection begins, after which the healthcare provider inserts a speculum to examine the cervix and obtain a Pap smear if necessary. A manual examination, which evaluates the internal reproductive organs, may include a rectal exam in the final step.
When should you see an OB-GYN?
The American College of Obstetricians & Gynecologists advises that girls have their first OB-GYN visit between 13 and 15 years old or when they start being sexually active. For other age groups, they can schedule sessions for a variety of issues, including abnormal vaginal bleeding, changes in the menstrual cycle, and more.
One of the most effective ways to stay fit is by practicing preventive care. Women who are not experiencing any reproductive health issues should have an annual preventive checkup. Your doctor may conduct evaluations, immunizations, or lab tests for specific conditions during this visit. These tests can also vary depending on your age and health. Additionally, your doctor will perform a pelvic exam and may request further tests or screenings based on your individual needs.
It would be best to visit an OB-GYN near you whenever there are changes in your reproductive cycle, including your menstrual cycle, pregnancy, perimenopause, and menopause, in addition to your annual checkup.
These changes may be unexpected or abnormal, including:
- Changes in menstrual bleeding volume or frequency
- Unusual cramping
- Pain during urination
- Pain during intercourse
Consider your age and reproductive goals when visiting your OB-GYN. If you're sexually active, your OB-GYN can provide birth control, safe sex tips, advice on preventing or treating sexually transmitted infections and pain during sex, abnormal vaginal discharge, and urinary tract infections.
If you are pregnant or planning to be, your OB-GYN can help with:
- labor and birth options
- breastfeeding advice
- postpartum depression
- prenatal care
- infertility treatment
- genetic testing
- diet advice
If you experience pain, cramps, or irregular bleeding during menstruation, you can consult an OB-GYN for advice on:
- managing symptoms
- evaluating cysts and fibroids
- addressing pelvic support problems
- getting help with mood swings and premenstrual syndrome
If you have experienced or are experiencing menopause, your OB-GYN may help with low libido, vaginal dryness, hot flashes, bone loss, incontinence, and hormone replacement therapy.
Some women choose to see an OB-GYN instead of a primary care physician. However, not all OB-GYNs are comfortable serving as primary care physicians. It is essential to discuss with your doctor if they are the right fit for your general health needs.
Essential topics to discuss with your OB-GYN
Open communication ensures that you receive the most appropriate care for your requirements. Here are some key topics you should always discuss with your OB-GYN:
- Vaginal odor: While vaginal odor is natural, a persistent foul or fishy smell may signal an infection or bacterial overgrowth. If you notice an unusual odor, consult your doctor to discover the source and seek appropriate treatment.
- Unusual growths or bumps: Finding a bump around your labia or vagina can be concerning. While ingrown hairs and pimples are common, certain growths may indicate genital warts or herpes. If herpes lesions don’t heal within 7-14 days, schedule an appointment for an accurate diagnosis.
- Painful periods: Menstrual cramps, breast tenderness, and headaches are common, but severe period pain could indicate conditions like endometriosis or uterine fibroids. If menstrual discomfort disrupts your daily life, consult your OB-GYN. Various treatments can help manage these conditions and improve your quality of life.
- Sexual history: Your gynecologist asks about your sexual history to assess your risk for HPV, cervical dysplasia, and STDs. Past infections may affect fertility, and lifelong conditions like herpes require proper management. Additionally, LGBTQ+ individuals may have specific health concerns that deserve attention.
- Sexual discomfort: Discomfort during sex is not something to ignore. Vaginal dryness can stem from birth control use, inadequate foreplay, or hormonal changes, especially postmenopause. If lubricants don't help or pain persists, consult your OB-GYN to explore possible solutions, including vaginal estrogen or other therapies.
- Low libido: A reduced sex drive can result from medications, underlying health issues, or lifestyle factors like stress. Your OB-GYN can help identify the cause and suggest medical or behavioral interventions to improve sexual well-being.
- Urinary or fecal leakage: Postpartum and menopausal women often experience incontinence, which can impact daily life. Your OB-GYN can recommend medical or surgical treatments and refer you to a pelvic floor specialist if necessary.
Tips to boost reproductive health
Choosing a healthy lifestyle can improve reproductive health. Here are a few quick ideas for achieving good reproductive health and wellness:
- Eating nutritious foods
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Ensuring to hydrate yourself
- Getting enough sleep
- Frequent OB-GYN visits
- Caffeine moderation
- Refraining from drinking
- Quitting smoking and avoiding other tobacco products
How can you find the best OB-GYN near you in Fort Lauderdale, FL?
Pregnancy, menstruation, menopause, and childbirth are all extensive and complicated experiences. Finding an OB-GYN who comprehends your medical requirements and preferences is critical to ensure a smooth process during every stage of your life. Before picking a doctor, you must consider your trust and comfort levels.
To find an OB-GYN in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, create a free Zocdoc account and search for the right match for you. Enter your location, symptoms, procedure, date, and specialty to start your search. Furthermore, advanced filters can help narrow down the search results based on gender, language proficiency, and insurance plans accepted.
Zocdoc assists you in making the most cost-effective savings when paying for healthcare. For instance, if you enter your location into the search box, the website will present you with a list of nearby providers and save you money on unnecessary travel expenses this way. You can also use your insurance to pay for your medical services by identifying doctors who accept your health insurance plan.
If you're looking for OB-GYNs who accept your insurance, you can connect your medical, dental, and vision insurance plans to your account. You must note that you can use only one insurance plan for each appointment.
However, if you have multiple insurance plans, there's no need to worry. You can add your secondary insurance details in the appointment notes. Additionally, if your provider utilizes Zocdoc's Intake forms, you can conveniently enter your secondary insurance information for quick access. Suppose you prefer not to share your insurance details with your provider when booking an appointment on Zocdoc. In that case, you will be prompted to either provide your insurance information or indicate that you will be paying out-of-pocket. Certain providers may require insurance information to schedule an appointment. However, if you do not have insurance or choose not to use it, you can effortlessly search for another provider on Zocdoc. For more insurance-related questions, please visit Zocdoc's patient help center.
Each listed professional has a detailed profile to learn more about their academic background, medical specialization, awards, the services they offer, and other information. Before shortlisting the doctors, you can evaluate and compare various profiles. You can book an in-person or online session with them after choosing the best OB-GYN, obstetrician, or gynecologist near you.
Booking appointments with OB-GYNs near you on Zocdoc is easy, secure, and free!
Maternal health and fertility statistics for Florida
The Florida Department of Health reports approximately 1,973 licensed OB-GYNs in Florida in 2021–2022, which dropped to almost 1,958 in 2022–2023. Florida's Miami-Dade County (240) had the most OB-GYNs from 2023 to 2024.
According to the March of Dimes statistics, nearly 4,111,275 women (15–44 years old) were of reproductive age in the state in 2023. The fertility rate during this time was 53.9 per 1,000 women.
According to data provided by the Florida Department of Health in 2022, around 761.5 out of 100,000 individuals were infected with bacterial sexually transmitted diseases. The Florida Department of Health's data on contraceptive use between 2017 and 2019 revealed that tablets, 3-month injectables, and Long-Acting Reversible Contraceptives (LARC) were among Florida's most frequently used contraceptive methods. In Florida, around 69.3% of women used some contraception.
The American Cancer Society (ACS) estimated that Florida will see approximately 23,920 new instances of breast cancer, 1,820 cases of ovarian cancer, 5,720 cases of uterine cancer, and 1,160 cases of cervical cancer in 2025.
Sources
WebMD[1]
WebMD[2]
Healthline[1]
Healthline[2]
FLHealthCharts[1]
Florida Department of Health
FLHealthCharts[2]
March of Dimes
Johns Hopkins Medicine
American Cancer Society
