What is OB-GYN?
Obstetrician-gynecologists, or OB-GYNs, specialize in female reproductive health, pregnancy, and childbirth. While some OB-GYNs specialize mainly in the female reproductive system, others provide an array of general health services equal to those of a primary care physician. They also provide routine medical check-ups and preventive screenings for gynecologic cancers.
OB-GYN specialists can evaluate and treat various conditions—abnormal bleeding, breast-related disorders, endometriosis, genital itching, hormonal disorders, infertility, pelvic pain, and urinary tract or vaginal infections.
According to the American Medical Association (AMA), surgeries and diagnostic procedures are essential components of an OB-GYN's role. Some standard procedures include sonograms, cesarean sections, and pelvic laparoscopy.
Education qualifications of an OB-GYN
Aspiring OB-GYNs must first complete a four-year undergraduate program, often earning a bachelor’s degree in a science-related field. Before admission to medical school, all prospective doctors must meet specific prerequisite coursework in biology, chemistry, physics, mathematics, and the humanities. Choosing a science major meets most of these prerequisites.
Moreover, elective courses in anatomy, physiology, or microbiology can enhance one's prospects when applying to a medical school after completing their undergraduate studies.
The path to becoming an OB-GYN entails four years of medical school. During this period, students can observe and participate in various medical procedures, honing their practical skills.
In the initial two years, students explore diverse aspects of medicine, from its basics to pathology and ambulatory care pharmacology. This broad learning forms the necessary base for students before their specialization. If their school offers a clerkship program, obstetrics and gynecology aspirants can focus on this field for the final two years.
Following medical school, OB-GYN students progress to four-year residency programs. These programs provide comprehensive training in women's reproductive health under the mentorship of experienced physicians. Residents participate in rotations across various medical settings, where they evaluate, diagnose, and manage patients. Additionally, they receive specialized training in fields such as family planning or urogynecology.
OB-GYNs can pursue fellowships that typically last three years to specialize further. These programs combine theoretical instruction with hands-on experience, preparing practitioners for advanced careers in OB-GYN. Fellowship options include gynecologic oncology, maternal-fetal medicine, and reproductive endocrinology and infertility.
What are the subspecialties of OB-GYN?
Data from the American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS) shows that while most OB-GYNs are generalists, some obtain board certification in a subspecialty. There are around seven recognized subspecialties by the ABMS:
- Critical care medicine focuses on diagnosing, treating, and supporting critically ill and injured patients.
- In complex family planning, an OB-GYN works with women with challenging conditions and consults with other professionals to ensure proper patient reproductive care.
- Female pelvic medicine and reconstructive surgery OB-GYNs offer medical and surgical care and treatment to women with pelvic floor disorders.
- Gynecologic oncologists are OB-GYNs trained to give the best possible treatment for gynecologic cancers.
- Hospice and palliative medicine OB-GYNs work with patients with life-limiting illnesses to optimize their quality of life and minimize suffering.
- Maternal-fetal medicine OB-GYNs focus on addressing health concerns for both the mother and baby and helping manage pregnancy-related complications.
- Reproductive endocrinology and infertility OB-GYNs evaluate and treat fertility issues and hormonal dysfunctions.
What is the difference between an OB-GYN and a gynecologist?
There is a common misconception that OB-GYNs and gynecologists are the same. An OB-GYN specializes in obstetrics and gynecology, whereas a gynecologist only specializes in gynecology. A gynecologist is a medical professional dealing with female reproductive health—from menarche to post-menopause.
A gynecologist can diagnose and treat any reproductive-related conditions, such as those related to the cervix, uterus, ovaries, fallopian tubes, or vagina. They also recommend and perform screenings such as breast exams, pap smears, and pelvic exams. Furthermore, they can perform hysterectomies and tubal ligations. They are also ideal for getting advice on sexual intimacy, such as sexual hygiene, contraceptives, and protection against sexually transmitted diseases.
In short, you can visit a gynecologist for non-pregnancy issues related to reproductive health. To receive comprehensive care, you can see an OB-GYN to address your reproductive health needs.
How does the overturning of Roe vs. Wade affect the field of OB-GYN?
According to a fact sheet from the Association of American Medical Colleges, abortion is essential to women's healthcare. Hence, the Supreme Court's overturning of Roe vs. Wade could impact women as well as OB-GYN residents and other medical trainees in all affected states.
Roe v. Wade overturning decision allows states to ban abortions before 12 weeks. This ban could limit the OB-GYN residents’ access to required abortion training and other related reproductive procedures, such as managing miscarriages, excessive uterine bleeding, and endometrial biopsies. The lack of necessary training provided to residents could affect the care they provide as, in many cases, these procedures are life-saving options for many patients.
Health concerns in jurisdictions with abortion restrictions may affect women seeking reproductive care. It may also prohibit pregnant women from accessing specific cancer therapies or prompt treatment for ectopic pregnancies, ultimately worsening maternal morbidity and death rates.
Why should you see an OB-GYN?
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) suggests that young women schedule their first gynecological visit between ages 13 and 15. This early appointment helps detect potential gynecological issues early on, provides valuable education about their bodies, and assists in managing any emerging concerns. Moreover, OB-GYNs offer advice on healthy lifestyle choices to support overall health and adapt to developmental changes.
From routine health assessments to annual well-women examinations from age 21, you must visit an OB-GYN near you for cancer screenings. They also help diagnose and treat mild conditions that could become severe if left untreated. Other reasons for visiting an OB-GYN include the following:
- Irregular or abnormal periods: Unusually heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding may improve after a few cycles. However, if these issues persist or worsen, they could indicate severe underlying conditions. Symptoms to watch for include intense cramps, bleeding between cycles, or menstruation lasting significantly longer than usual.
- Pelvic pain: Pelvic pain symptoms include nausea, vomiting, fever, and heaviness or bloating in your abdomen. It often occurs during certain activities like physical exercise or sexual intercourse. Moreover, pelvic pain may indicate ovarian cysts, pelvic inflammatory diseases, and endometriosis. Therefore, you must consult an OB-GYN if you are experiencing such symptoms.
- Lumps in the breast: During routine check-ups, OB-GYNs perform breast examinations and mammograms to detect potential signs of breast cancer, assess the nature of any lumps, and recommend suitable treatments. Additionally, they conduct tests to identify signs of breast infections, which may occur as a result of breastfeeding.
- Menopause: Women experience different symptoms during the onset of menopause. Hence, OB-GYNs help them navigate this phase of life and identify whether the symptoms are normal or abnormal. Routine examinations can also help ascertain premenopause through hormone tests.
- Urinary issues: Numerous women encounter urinary problems, like urinary tract infections or incontinence, which can cause discomfort and disrupt daily routines. OB-GYNs can conduct diagnostic assessments to evaluate these conditions and offer appropriate treatment.
How do you prepare for your first OB-GYN visit?
What happens at the appointment depends on the reason for the visit and your health. Generally, a first visit involves a chat with the doctor, who will take your personal and family medical history and try to understand your reproductive health goals. An honest account of your concerns and lifestyle will give the OB-GYN a good idea of your situation, and they can tell you what to expect in the future.
An annual gynecological checkup includes a physical exam, pelvic and breast exam, as well as immunizations based on your age and risk factors. You may also have to give blood or urine samples for screening tests. Regular visits can help you minimize health risks and maintain your health.
Whether you have an upcoming annual checkup or wish to see an OB-GYN for medical issues, keep the following points in mind for a smooth experience:
- Avoid scheduling an appointment during your period, especially if your visit involves a pelvic exam. Blood can interfere with the test results. Please confirm with your doctor before you visit.
- Hold off your bikini wax or other hair removal appointments until after your OB-GYN visit, as it can cause swelling and inflammation.
- If you feel embarrassed about vaginal discharge or odors, remember that it helps your OB-GYN understand the hormonal balance. Avoid douching.
- Avoid intercourse within two days before the appointment, especially if you have a pap test scheduled.
- Track your menstrual cycle using your phone, physical planner, or a tracking app.
- Bring your medical records so your doctor can get all the necessary information in a single visit.
Make a list of questions you want to address during the appointment. Remember that it is okay to feel nervous or embarrassed to ask specific questions or show certain areas of your body. Your OB-GYN is a trained healthcare professional who wants to help you clinically and non-judgmentally. If it makes you more comfortable, bring a relative or friend to the clinic once you choose an OB-GYN.
Find the best OB-GYN near you in Norfolk, VA
Whether you are starting your menstrual cycle, pregnancy, or planning to have a family in the future, an OB-GYN can evaluate and clarify all concerns about the changes in your body. They can also provide you with a care plan tailored to your needs. Furthermore, they can prescribe medication, offer contraception plans, and advise on diet and lifestyle. Zocdoc can help you find the best OB-GYN or gynecologist near you in Norfolk who accepts your insurance plan.
Perform a search mentioning your location (Norfolk, Virginia), doctor specialty (OB-GYN), and insurance plan. A comprehensive list of medical and healthcare professionals will appear based on your search criteria. If you need help with your insurance plan, use the Zocdoc insurance detector. Alternatively, you can update your insurance information on your Zocdoc account or upload a picture of your insurance card (when searching on your phone or tablet). It will display filtered search results of providers within your network. You can check out Zocdoc's insurance FAQs to learn more.
At Zocdoc, transparency is of utmost value. Hence, each OB-GYN's profile will include a brief introduction, educational qualifications, practice location, visit reasons, and, most importantly, patient reviews and ratings.
Furthermore, you can filter out your results by gender, language, hospital affiliations, etc. Video appointments are also an option to go for before an in-person visit. You can book one by looking for a purple video icon on their profiles or filtering the video appointment selection.
Whether you are looking for a gynecologist or an OB-GYN near you, Zocdoc makes booking an appointment 100% easy, free, and safe!
Statistics on women's health in Norfolk, Virginia
The Cancer Statistics Center estimates around 8,250 new breast cancer cases, nearly 1,750 uterine corpus tumor cases, about 520 ovarian cancer cases, and around 290 cervical cancer cases in Virginia in 2025.
The National Cancer Institute estimated that the incidence rate of breast cancer in Norfolk was around 138.4 cases per 100,000 women between 2017 and 2021. Norfolk showed an approximate 0.1 rise in the incidence rate according to the recent 5-year trend.
In 2018, the Virginia Department of Health recorded approximately 3,453 live births and nearly 23 infant deaths in Norfolk. Of these births, roughly 12.3% were preterm, and about 11% had low birth weight. Additionally, the department reported over 1300.8 cases of chlamydia, almost 454.4 cases of gonorrhea, nearly 23.3 cases of HIV, and approximately 47.4 cases of early syphilis per 100,000 population during that year.
Sources
Cancer Statistics Center
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists[1]
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists[2]
Association of American Medical Colleges
Healthline
National Cancer Institute
St. George’s University
UMass Chan Medical School
Virginia Department of Health
Wooster Community Hospital
Seattle pi
Houston Methodist
Medical News Today
HealthCentral
