What is the difference between obstetrics and gynecology

They both have extensive knowledge of female body systems and health issues. The rule of thumb is that women who are not pregnant should see a gynecologist for their health needs. Women begin seeing a gynecologist regularly during the teen years and continue throughout the rest of their life. Sometimes, it may be helpful to seek obstetric advice while seeking to become pregnant.

A gynecologist helps women with issues pertaining specifically to the breasts and reproductive system. Pain, burning, discharge, and other issues affecting the vagina, uterus, and ovaries - should be checked by a gynecologist first.

A gynecologist may also advise on a wide range of other general health issues. An obstetrician has a lot of the same knowledge that a gynecologist has. However, they mainly focus on issues that arise before, during, and after giving birth.

They will take extra measures to ensure the health of women over age Part of their role includes advising patients on how certain exercises, medications, and dietary choices can promote the development of a healthy child. During routine check-ups, obstetricians monitor the health of the baby and the mom-to-be.

They perform ultrasounds, measurements, and other tests. They address the most common issues pregnant women face, including morning sickness, leg pain, back pain, and heartburn. In preparation for labor, obstetricians can provide information as to what a patient can expect. They can direct expectant moms and dads to labor classes. Often, they coordinate care among a team of professionals that includes nurses, labor coaches, and midwives.

When a patient goes into labor, an obstetrician can monitor her progress. He or she will continue to direct the team of medical professionals providing support. Sometimes, the obstetrician will deliver the baby or babies.

Other times, depending on how the hospital divides its responsibilities, a different doctor may do so. If you are planning to become pregnant, you can preemptively seek the guidance of an obstetrician to help with the pre-pregnancy phase. This can be especially important for women over age 35, women who have had miscarriages in the past, women with a history of complicated pregnancies, and women who are at risk of complications.

If you have any of these conditions or another health issue, you should consider seeing an obstetrician before you become pregnant:. For many women, their first contact with an obstetrician is in response to pregnancy symptoms. These signs include:. Some patients might prefer to work with a family doctor or a midwife.

However, for some patients, including those who are over age 35 and those who are at risk for complications during their pregnancy, seeking the expertise of an obstetrician is highly recommended. If a patient develops problems while seeing a family doctor or midwife, she is usually referred to an obstetrician. Most people begin their search for an obstetrician by checking which providers are covered by their insurance. Once you have identified a prospect, you should meet him or her for a conversation.

Most obstetricians will talk with you and answer your questions before agreeing to provide treatment. You should ask questions that pertain to issues that are important to you, such as pain management, the induction of labor after a week gestation, and the possibility of a vaginal delivery if you have had a C-section in the past. If you have specific issues that might complicate your pregnancy, you may want to search for an obstetrician with specialized training in the area of care that pertains to you.

Finally, go with your gut. It is important that your obstetrician makes you feel comfortable and provides a pleasant environment for you. If a patient is experiencing symptoms of an infection or a sexually transmitted disease, her gynecologist will perform an examination, provide a diagnosis and recommend a course of treatment.

A gynecologist can also treat pelvic inflammatory disease, among other issues. Patients who experience discomfort in their pelvis or reproductive organs can seek help from a gynecologist. Depending on his or her specialty, a gynecologist can also address injuries and provide emergency care pertaining to these regions of the body. Everyone is so caring and nice. Flo helped me to find a more suitable appointment time; that is important as well!

Pyle and her staff are welcoming. They strive to educate and empower their patients. I was greeted and treated with the utmost care and respect.

I would recommend this group to any new mom, or young adult, to care for their medical needs. I saw her Dr. Burns for a condition I feel is very embarrassing-leakage of my bladder and bowel. I have had this for years and never brought it up to my family doctor till I saw an ad on TV. My doctor referred me and promised me Dr Burns would take care of me.

Not only did she help me but she and her nurse were very professional. I was embarrassed going to see her but was not embarrassed at all after meeting her. I would recommend her to everyone. Very intelligent and compassionate doctor. I would highly recommend Dr. She is very professional and goes over every procedure needed.

Burns and her staff made sure I understood everything that would happen before I went in the hospital for surgery. Burns is my gynecologist and I saw her for a preconception visit. She took more time with me than I ever expected to explain genetic testing, timeline, etc. I had a great experience.

As a plus, the nurse was fantastic and the office is very nice. Went to her Dr. Burns for a second opinion- she put my mind at ease. Very informative. Ended up going the non surgery route and an very pleased. Burns seems to be very concerned about me. That helps a lot. Burns seems to know what is doing so my experience was good. She took the time to explain things to me. I came in for an IUD removal. I was so nervous, but it was no problem! Great job, Angela! So simple and easy! I was a new patient--first time at VBOG.

Extremely impressed with the organization, cleanliness, and friendly professional staff. Warm greeting with check in, medical assistant work up and check out. All involved were efficient.

Entire visit less than an hour. I would highly recommend this practice. Pyle was thorough and took her time. Appreciated the time in her office before the exam. Always professional, Dr. Very little wait, prompt attention. Sheree Medical Assistant was so kind, helpful, respectful, and extremely compassionate. It was my adult trans-male child's first visit to a gynecologist We were both so thankful that Dr.

Hanson was the doctor for this visit! We had heard teens really liked Dr. Hanson's bedside manner; now we know why. Hanson is knowledgeable, caring, and factual about health needs for people headed for college.

Her way of care is excellent and respectful. I am so glad that Jessica was working at the Providence office today. She was a great listener, made sure all of my questions were answered, and was exceptionally warm and helpful! Burns is always gentle, respectful, and shows that cares about me as a patient of hers. I highly recommend Dr. Burns, especially for anyone who has gynecologic issues, postmenopausal issues, or needs a wonderful specialist in this urogynecological field. Thanks Dr.

Thank you for all the great care and service. You have a wonderful practice. I'm sorry I can't stay but have relocated to NY. I would recommend this practice to any pregnant lady in Hampton Roads! I was so impressed with the office staff, nurse, and lab tech.

The receptionist was kind and courteous and Dr. Hanson's nurse was attentive and thorough. The young lady who took my blood was also kind and courteous and as I checked out another delightful young lady greeted me with a smile and kindness.

My apt was at and I was out in 30 minutes. You have an exceptional staff who clearly loves what they do. Burns, words cannot express how much I appreciate you. You are more than a doctor; you are a caring friend. Truly you are special. Hope this perks up your day and puts a smile on your face. I continue to keep you in my prayers. I normally see Dr.

Pyle but she didn't have an opening for January. The only doctor available was Dr. I didn't really want a male doctor to do my pap but I decided to give it a try.

At my appointment I was pleasantly surprised. Martin explained why I might be experiencing my symptoms in such a way that I understood it. When it came to my exam, he was very gentle.

Because of this experience I will not hesitate to see him again. Thank you Dr. It was so nice to have all of my questions answered with kind responses and a light-hearted attitude. I feel so much more confident about my first pregnancy now.

Burns, you thought of everything, making me comfortable before, during, and after surgery. Your expert surgery seems to have gone very well and for that I am grateful. I appreciate all you have done on my behalf and I think the quality of my life is going to be so much better. I thank you so very much. Katie and Bionca did such a great job when I came in for an appointment. They were so nice and friendly.

It was so nice to be greeted with a warm smile and happy people. You would be surprised--not all offices are like this. Also the person on the phone who made my appointment and the tech who help were the bomb! I want to express my appreciation to the staff in the Glenn Mitchell office. They are special and make me feel special. Angie, the front desk supervisor, always greets me with her special smile and is very helpful. Ellie, I know just left us. What a sweetheart.

She was a special greeter when you came in the door. Miriam, Dr. Burns' nurse is another sweetheart. She also gives sweet hugs. She is caring and has a personal interest in her patients--makes me feel at ease. For someone like me this means a lot. The nurses Sara and Rachelle R. Believe it or not they also great me with hugs when I see them.

That's special. Sam was also helpful getting my paperwork ready for my surgery. We had laughter and sweet conversations. She is so sweet.