Hearing the term OB/GYN for obstetrics and gynecology may lead one to use the terms interchangeably; however, there is a difference between the two. Obstetrics is the field in which doctors care for their patients during and immediately following pregnancy. When it comes down to the main difference between obstetrics vs gynecology, obstetricians are primarily concerned with delivering babies and providing the care that is related to it, while gynecologists take care of a woman’s health as it relates to the reproductive system.
Gynecologists perform tests to detect certain problems early in order to give prompt treatment when necessary. These tests are primarily Pap smears and mammograms. Gynecologists will treat infections and other diseases as well as help with infertility problems. They will also treat cancer of the reproductive system, including the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and uterus. Here’s another list of the differences between gynecologist and obstetrician.
Obstetricians do not treat diseases; they only treat health issues as they relate to pregnancy. Women who want no future pregnancies and want a tubal ligation will have it performed by a gynecologist. Gynecologists also do hysterectomies whenever they become necessary.
If the gynecologist is only practicing gynecology, their role when it comes to pregnancy is to confirm the pregnancy and then transfer the patient to an obstetrician for care during this time.
Some of the things our obstetrician will do during the pregnancy include performing ultrasounds at certain times during the pregnancy. If there are complications, ultrasounds may be performed more frequently. The purpose of these ultrasounds is to make sure the fetus is healthy and developing properly and to take appropriate measures if there are suspected or confirmed problems.
Surgical procedures that an obstetrician can perform are Cesarean sections and episiotomies, both of which are related to delivery. Other surgeries that are related to a woman’s reproductive system will be performed by a gynecologist.
As far as training is concerned for obstetrics vs gynecology, both require the same training. Normally, they are trained together. In many cases, the same doctor practices both. If this is so, the only change will simply be one of function, as there will be no need for another doctor to take over the care.
Our well-trained experts at South Lake OBGYN in Clermont have backgrounds in both gynecology and obstetrics. We will be happy to take care of you at any stage of life. Our office serves the Clermont, Winter Garden, Minneola, Groveland, and surrounding areas. Contact us today to schedule your appointment to learn more.