What is an OB-GYN doctor?
OB-GYN is an abbreviation for doctor of obstetrics and gynecology. The practitioners in this field practice as obstetricians as well as gynecologists. Obstetricians are specialists concerned with maternal and child health before, during, and after pregnancy. Gynecologists specialize in almost all women's health issues.
Physicians trained in both obstetrics and gynecology face a choice. They may choose to practice as one of the following:
- Gynecologists are primarily concerned with women's health. They are concerned with treating urinary tract infections, screening for various diseases (such as cancer), and other women's health issues such as menopause or cervical cancer.
- Obstetricians usually do not deal with concerns outside pregnancy and related care. They often work unpredictable or long hours, given the uncertain nature of delivery. Institutions often have tie-ups with other hospitals to share obstetric responsibilities and prevent too many duties from falling on any single physician.
- OB-GYNs focus on both areas. Many of them practice as primary care physicians.
What kind of education and training do OB-GYNs receive?
Aspiring OB-GYNs start by completing a four-year bachelor's degree in a relevant field. They then enroll in a medical school where they study and train for another four years.Â
While the first two years of medical school involve theoretical learning in classrooms and laboratories, students receive practical training during the following two years. They train under the guidance of experts in medical settings such as clinics and hospitals. On completing medical school, students earn a Doctor of Medicine (M.D.) or a Doctor of Osteopathy (D.O.) degree.
After the medical training, an OB-GYN completes additional residency training programs. Here, they learn about providing healthcare at various stages of a woman's life, including preconception, pregnancy, and post-pregnancy care. OB-GYNs also learn more about prenatal diagnosis, such as methods in genetics, during their residency.
Many OB-GYN residents continue to train and subspecialize in the field of OB-GYN. Such specialization often takes the shape of 2- to 4-year fellowships.
What are the various subspecialties OB-GYNs can take up?
Around 90 percent of OB-GYNs serve as generalists, covering a broad spectrum of OB-GYN services. However, some may choose to specialize in one or more different subspecialties, including:
1. Reproductive endocrinology and infertility: These endocrinologists focus on addressing issues related to infertility and the glands and hormones of the endocrine system. Patients having difficulty conceiving can consult a reproductive endocrinologist. They can perform assisted reproduction procedures, including in vitro fertilization, gamete intrafallopian transfer, zygote intrafallopian transfer, and embryo transfer.
2. Maternal-fetal medicine: Specialists in maternal-fetal medicine care for patients with high-risk pregnancies and associated medical conditions. Conditions that may need the expertise of a maternal-fetal medicine specialist include chronic or gestational high blood pressure, gestational diabetes, blood clotting disorders, and premature labor.
3. Gynecologic oncology: Oncologists specializing in gynecologic oncology can diagnose and treat cancers of the female reproductive system. This encompasses cancers affecting the uterus, cervix, ovaries, and vulva.
4. Female pelvic medicine and reproductive surgery: Surgeons in this field treat women with urinary tract issues and disorders of the muscle and connective tissue beneath the pelvis, known as the pelvic floor. They address issues such as urinary or fecal incontinence, overactive bladder, bladder pain, vaginal or urinary tract infections, and pelvic organ prolapse.
5. Complex family planning: These specialists learn to provide abortion and contraception care to patients dealing with complex medical conditions. They are family planning leaders due to their extensive training in clinical care, research, and education.
6. Critical care medicine: These experts diagnose, treat, and support critically ill and injured patients.
7. Hospice and palliative medicine: Specialists in this field receive training in preventing and relieving the suffering experienced by patients with life-limiting illnesses in an interdisciplinary setting.
Healthy pregnancy
Preconception health may play an important role in maintaining a good pregnancy. The Arizona Department of Health Services (ADHS) suggests that women take the following steps in this regard:
- Maintain a healthy weight.
- Avoid alcohol or smoking.
- Take multivitamin supplements rich in iron (including 400-800 mcg of folic acid).
The ADHS further recommends that expectant mothers proactively manage any existing health conditions, including but not limited to hypertension, diabetes, or STDs.Â
Pregnant women may consult their physician before starting or stopping any medication. It also includes over-the-counter medicines or herbal supplements. Physical activity promotes sleep and helps you stay strong. Your doctor can guide you through the types of physical activity that may be appropriate.
A balanced diet is another essential part of preconception health. Ensure eating a balanced and nutritious diet, including fruits, vegetables, lean meats, as well as other protein sources. Doctors also recommend dairy products that are low in fat and whole grains.
When should you visit an OB-GYN?
It is important to visit the best OB-GYN near you for preventive treatment as it is the best strategy for treating health and medical disorders. Even if you are in good health and do not have any reproductive health difficulties, it is better to have a preventive checkup once a year and keep your health in check.
During this visit, your OB-GYN may recommend examinations, vaccinations, or lab tests for specific diseases. In general, your age helps your doctor decide which tests to order. In addition, they can do a pelvic exam if needed or recommend additional tests or screenings based on age and condition.
In addition to your annual appointment, you should see your OB-GYN if you observe any changes in your reproductive cycle. These changes could be regular, planned, or anticipated. These phases include:
- your first menstrual period
- pregnancy
- perimenopause (menopause transition)
- menopause
Other related health issues that can be unusual or unexpected are:
- changes in menstrual bleeding volume or frequencyÂ
- pain during intercourse
- unusual cramping
- pain during urination
It helps to keep knowledge of your current reproductive phase and reproductive goals before visiting an OB-GYN. Do not hesitate to discuss it openly with your doctor if you are unsure of it.
If you're sexually active, you could see an OB-GYN for:
- birth control, contraception, or sterilization
- safe sex tips
- treatment and prevention of pain during sex
- tips on preventing or treating sexually transmitted diseases (STDs)
- vaccination against the human papillomavirus (HPV)
- abnormal vaginal discharge
- urinary tract infections (UTIs)
If you are pregnant or intend to get pregnant, you should see your OB-GYN for:
- assistance with pregnancy planning
- maternity care
- food suggestions for infertility treatment
- childbirth and delivery options
- genetic tests and screenings
- breastfeeding guidanceÂ
- postpartum depression
If you are experiencing pain or trouble before or during menstruation, you should consult an OB-GYN about the following:
- reducing cramps
- irregular or abnormal bleeding
- mood swings
- premenstrual syndrome guidance
- fibroids and cysts
- pelvic support issues
If you are going through or have gone through menopause, you should see your OB-GYN to discuss the following issues:
- low libido
- vaginal dryness
- hot flashes
- incontinence due to bone loss
- hormone replacement treatment
Selecting the best OB-GYN near you in Phoenix, Arizona
Selecting an OB-GYN can be challenging, as uninhibited discussions with your doctor are essential for your long-term health and planning a healthy pregnancy. At Zocdoc, we have always aimed to make healthcare accessible to everyone. Therefore, our website displays not only fact-based information on individual providers (including their qualifications, clinical experience, and expertise) but also lists verified reviews and ratings by past patients.
These reviews can help you gauge the competence and friendliness of an OB-GYN in Phoenix, Arizona. If you're short on time or are concerned about your budget, don't worry! Zocdoc allows for free and secure bookings within a few clicks. Moreover, you can simply search for a specialty (or any specific health concern) on our page. Within seconds, the platform will display a list of the top-rated OB-GYN specialists within your local area.
Before selecting a physician, make sure to look at your insurance coverage. Staying within the network can help you manage your budget without losing out on important health advice. You may also look at the provider's profile to learn more about the benefits they accept. In case of doubt, contact your local clinic to learn more about their policies.
Another important factor is your health profile. Pre-existing conditions, such as hypertension, diabetes, or mental health diagnoses, can be relevant when making crucial decisions about your health. Always feel free to discuss any such chronic conditions with your OB-GYN. It is never too early to take steps for active health.Â
Booking appointments with the best OB-GYNs near you on Zocdoc is secure, easy, and free!
Women's health and pregnancy statistics in Arizona
The infant mortality rate (IMR) refers to the infant deaths (i.e., before one year) per 1,000 live births. National-level data at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) from 2018 shows the racial disparity in IMR figures: African Americans have the highest rates at around 10.8, followed by Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islanders (9.4), American Indian or Alaska Native (8.2) and Hispanic individuals (4.9%).
According to the 2013 Arizona Behavioral Risk Surveillance Survey and 2014 Provider Opinions About Preconception Care Survey:
- 60% of women may have never talked to a healthcare provider about the best ways to ensure a healthy pregnancy.
- Only over half (55%) of women know that consuming 400 mcg can help avert congenital disabilities.
- 96% of practitioners agree that preconception care is essential for positive pregnancy outcomes.
- 22% of providers claimed always to provide their patients with preconception care.
A recently published study in the journal BMJ Open reports data on the effectiveness of a home visits program for community health workers called the Arizona Health Start Programme. Based on data analysis from 7,212 participants and 53,948 matches, the paper concludes that the intervention, in a way, reduced the rates of low birth weight, very low birth weight, extremely low birth weight, and preterm birth cases. Groups at risk of Maternal and Child Health equality were especially likely to benefit from the intervention.
Sources
Arizona Department of Health Services[1]
Arizona Department of Health Services[2]
Arizona Department of Health Services[3]
Arizona Department of Health Services[4]
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
MedlinePlus
National Center for Biotechnology Information
National Cancer Institute
UCLA Med School
UTSouthwestern Medical Center
Healthline
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists
