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

What conditions can be treated by Gynecologists-Obstetrician?

Following are a few of the conditions that can be treated by 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

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

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

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

Can an individual require post-surgery follow-ups after delivery?

Follow-ups are recommended as there is a risk of postpartum hemorrhage up to 6 weeks after delivery. In some cases, placenta previa leads to postpartum hemorrhage and the condition needs to get monitored. There may be chances of abscess formation in the pelvic region that causes pelvic inflammatory disease. Hence, it is necessary to have follow-up sessions with the Gynecologists-Obstetrician.

Can an individual undergo a pap smear test on their periods?

Yes, one can have a pap smear test during their periods. But it is most beneficial to wait till bleeding stops if one’s menstrual flow is heavy. However, five days after the end of periods is the best time to get the pap test done.

Can ObGyn (Obstetrics and Gynecologists) treat uterine fibroids?

Myomectomy is the best effective treatment for uterine fibroids. Obstetricians can perform a myomectomy procedure and suggest various treatment options based on the condition of fibroids. If left untreated, they may increase in size and number.