Who is a Gynecologist-Obstetrician?

Gynecology is the medical branch that deals with the female reproductive system. Obstetrics is the field of medicine that concentrates on the study of pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period. So, medical professionals who specialize in both obstetrics and gynecology are called Gynecologist-Obstetrician. They deal with pregnant women throughout the childbirth and also diagnose and treat medical conditions and diseases related to vagina, ovaries, uterus, and breasts.

What are the qualifications of Gynecologist-Obstetrician?

A 5-year medical degree [MBBS] that is recognized by the General Medical Council and a 2-year foundation course of general training are the basic requirements for an individual to be a doctor. However, the following are the specialties or extra qualifications required to be a Gynecologist-Obstetrician:

• CCT - OBGMRCP - Obstetrics & Gynecology
• MRCOG(UK)
• MD - Midwifery & Gynecology
• MS - Obstetrics & Gynaecology
• PhD - Obstetrics & Gynecology
• DNB - Obstetrics & Gynecology
• MNAMS - Obstetrics & Gynaecology
• Post Graduate Diploma in Maternity and Child Health (PGDMCH)
• Fellowship in Reproductive Medicine
• FCPS - Mid. & Gynae
• Fellow of Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists FRCOG (London)
• DRCOG
• Fellow of Indian College of Obstetrics and Gynecology (FICOG)
• Diploma of the Faculty of Family Planning (DFFP)
• DGO
• Fellow of the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologist (FRANZCOG)
• MD - Obstetrics & Gynaecology

Why should an individual consult a Gynecologists-Obstetrician?

Individuals who are suffering from any of the following diseases or medical conditions should consult a Gynecologist-Obstetrician:

• Pre-menstrual syndrome [PMS]
• Ovarian cysts
• Heavy menstrual bleeding
• Gynecological cancers
• Vulva & vagina skin disorders
• Polycystic ovarian syndrome [PCOS]
• Ectopic pregnancy
• Abortion
• Pre-eclampsia
• Spontaneous abortion
• Retained placenta
• Termination of pregnancy [TOP]
• Implanon insertion
• Temporary & Permanent contraception
• Pelvic pain
• Endometriosis
• Uterine fibroids
• Genital tract infections
• Pelvic organ prolapse

Can Gynecologists treat premenstrual syndrome [PMS]?

Yes, Gynecologists can treat premenstrual syndrome based on the severity of the symptoms. If the symptoms are mild PMS can be cured by lifestyle and diet modifications. Gynecologist prescribes medications if the symptoms are severe. 

What surgeries can be performed by ObGyn (Obstetrics and Gynecologists)?

Few of the common surgeries and procedures performed by Gynecologist-Obstetrician are:

• Cervical biopsy
• Ablation
• Colposcopy
• Oophorectomy
• Vulvectomy
• Endometrial biopsy
• Dilation and Curettage [D&C]
• Myomectomy
• Pelvic laparoscopy
• Tubal ligation
• Hysterectomy
• C-section
• Normal delivery

How often should an individual consult Gynecologist-Obstetrician?

It is recommended that a healthy individual should consult a Gynecologist once a year. But one should consult a Gynecologist once in 6 months if he/she is suffering from medical conditions related to uterus, vagina, ovaries, and breasts. However, Pregnant women should consult an Obstetrician once in a month until childbirth and the individuals who are suffering from any problems related to pregnancy should consult once every 2 months.

Can ObGyn (Obstetrics and Gynecologists) treat pre-eclampsia?

Delivery is the definitive treatment for preeclampsia if the baby is sufficiently developed. Obstetricians treat the condition with antihypertensive medications under special care if the individual is not yet prepared for delivery. If left untreated, pre-eclampsia can lead to serious complications for mother and baby.