Article Translations: (Spanish)
Obstetrics (ahb-STEH-triks) & gynecology (guy-nuh-KAHL-uh-jee) is the area of medicine that treats conditions and problems related to female reproductive health. It is one medical field, with two specialty areas:
An obstetrician-gynecologist (ahb-steh-TRIH-shun guy-nuh-KOL-uh-jist), often called an OB-GYN, is a doctor who specializes in female health before, during, and after the childbearing years.
After medical training in both obstetrics and gynecology, a doctor may focus on just one field or practice both as an OB-GYN.
Obstetrician-gynecologists provide care for:
OB-GYNs can:
Obstetrician-gynecologist training includes:
They also might have:
A women's health nurse practitioner (WHNP) is another good option for this kind of care. A WHNP is an advanced-practice nurse who focuses on reproductive, obstetric, and gynecological health. They can do exams, diagnose conditions, prescribe medicines (including birth control), create a treatment plan, and provide counseling.
Note: All information is for educational purposes only. For specific medical advice, diagnoses, and treatment, consult your doctor.
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