Obstetrics and Gynecology
Obstetrics and Gynecology, commonly known as OB/GYN, is a medical specialty focused on the care of women's reproductive health. It encompasses a wide range of services, including prenatal care, childbirth, gynecological exams, and the diagnosis and treatment of gynecological conditions. OB/GYNs play a crucial role in providing comprehensive healthcare for women at various stages of their lives. They monitor the health of pregnant women, ensuring the well-being of both mother and baby. They also offer guidance on nutrition, perform necessary tests and screenings, and assist in labor and delivery.
In addition to pregnancy care, OB/GYNs provide routine gynecological exams, such as pelvic and breast examinations, and perform Pap smears to detect cervical cancer. They address menstrual health concerns, including irregular periods and heavy bleeding, and offer treatments for conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), endometriosis, and uterine fibroids. OB/GYNs also provide counseling on contraception, family planning, and fertility evaluation. They support women through menopause, helping manage symptoms and discussing treatment options. Surgical expertise is an essential component of the specialty, as OB/GYNs perform procedures like hysterectomy, ovarian surgery, and minimally invasive surgeries. Overall, Obstetrics and Gynecology is dedicated to the well-being and reproductive health of women, encompassing preventive care, diagnostic services, treatments, and surgical interventions as needed.
Common Procedure
There are many procedures that can be provided to people by OB/GYNs. Some procedures may include:
Colposcopy
If the results of a cervical cancer screening test, such as Pap smear or HPV test, are abnormal this more thorough examination of the cervix and vaginal tissues may be needed.
Loop Electrical Excision Procedure (LEEP)
A procedure to quickly remove abnormal vaginal tissue within the cervix. A local anesthetic and a solution to enhance the points of removal visually is administered during the process. There is a chance of experiencing watery, pinkish discharge, brownish discharge, and mild cramping.
Endometrial Biopsy
A procedure that collects a tissue sample from the endometrium lining of the uterus. The sample is tested and checked under a microscope for abnormal cells or indicators of cancer.
IUD Insertion
An intrauterine device that is T-shaped and is placed in the uterus through the cervix. It is a reversible contraceptive that can be done in a doctor's office.
Nexplanon
Is about a 4 cm implant that goes into the upper forearm. This implant releases birth control hormones into the body and can last up to three years. This type of birth control has a 99% success rate for pregnancy prevention.
Dilation and Curettage (D&C)
An out-patient procedure to open (dilate) the cervix to collect samples of endometrial tissue with a curette. A D&C can also be done to remove a fetus that was not passed naturally after a miscarriage or to induce an abortion.
Tubal Ligation
A surgery to close the fallopian tubes for the prevention of pregnancy. It is also known as "tying the tubes".
Ovarian Cystectomy
The removal of a cyst that either has a solid appearance, larger than three inches in diameter, has the possibility to become cancerous, or causes constant pain. Cysts can be removed without removing an ovary. Women who do not take birth control produce small cysts every other month but they can disappear on their own.
