The branch of medicine that deals with the functioning of the female reproductive organs and disorders associated with it is known as gynaecology. Gynaecologists can deal with a number of different aspects of female reproductive health including period regulation, pregnancy, PCOD, menopause and infections of the reproductive tract.
Girls should have the first gynaecological consultation on attaining puberty and also when they become sexually active to understand the different types of birth control available and find one best suited to them. Adult women are advised to consult a gynaecologist at least once a year even if they do not have any gynaecological issues. In addition, you may want to consult a gynaecologist if you notice changes in your menstrual cycle, irritation or pain in and around the vagina, have an injury to the pelvic area or if you notice symptoms of STDs. Pregnant women must visit a gynaecologist regularly according to the schedule charted with the doctor.
Gynaecology has a number of sub specialities such as reproductive endocrinology, maternal-foetal medicine, gynaecologic oncology and urogynaecology. Doctors who specialize in pregnancy and delivery are known as Obstetricians.
A gynaecologist’s consultation fees usually begins at Rs. 600/-. Other procedures and tests may hold an additional cost.
Normal delivery of a baby: Rs 47,000/- to Rs. 87,000/-.
Caesarean delivery: R.s 28,000/- to Rs. 90,000/-.
Laparoscopic hysterectomy: Rs. 46,000/- to Rs.1,00,000/-.
Dilation and curettage surgery: Rs 7,000/- to Rs. 43,000/-.
Gynaecologists can diagnose and treat a number of conditions such as PCOD, menstruation issues, sexual dysfunction etc with the help of procedures such as:
Pelvic ultrasounds
This is a non-invasive diagnostic test that helps the doctor examine the internal reproductive organs. It may be used during pregnancy to check foetus development as well as diagnose certain conditions.
Hysteroscopy
This is a diagnostic procedure that uses an endoscope to inspect the uterine cavity and the cervix.
Colposcopy
A colposcopy, performed if a Pap smear has abnormal results, helps the doctor examine the vagina, vulva and cervix for signs of an infection or disease. .
Hysterectomy
A hysterectomy is a surgical procedure to remove the ovaries and uterus. It may be performed laparoscopically.
Dilation and curettage
A D&C procedure helps remove tissue from inside the uterus in cases of miscarriage or to treat uterine conditions like heavy menstrual bleeding.