Gynecologists are doctors who specialize in women’s health and the female reproductive system, which includes the vagina, uterus, ovaries, and fallopian tubes. Most gynecologists are also doctors of obstetrics (practices associated with childbirth, pregnancy, and postpartum care), which is why gynecologists are often called OB/GYNs. Gynecologists can treat issues related to menstruation, fertility, STIs, menopause, and hormones.
Obstetricians and gynecologists are very similar - but there are some differences between the two.
Obstetrics deals specifically with all aspects of pregnancy, including prenatal and postnatal care. Obstetricians are responsible for delivering babies and treating pregnancy-related issues, such as fetal distress and etopic pregnancies (the fetus grows outside of the uterus). Obstetricians, along with endocrinologists, can also provide therapy to help with fertility and pregnancy issues.
Gynecologists specialize in the female reproductive system and treat a broad array of women's health conditions.
Gynecologists help women with reproductive issues from their first period all the way through menopause. Gynecologists will also perform a number of regular tests and exams, such as:
Pap smear (to screen for cervical cancer)
Breast exams (screening for breast cancer)
Pelvic exams (screening for ovarian cysts, uterine fibroids, STIs, and cancer)
Gynecologists can also be consulted for:
Contraceptive/ birth control counseling
Endometriosis treatment
Abnormal/ irregular menstruation
Polyps in the reproductive system (usually in the cervix or vagina)
Infection (such as UTIs or STIs)
Most doctors will undergo training to specialize in both obstetrics and gynecology. This allows the provider to offer more complete and comprehensive care to patients. Providers who specialize in both obstetrics and gynecology are known as OB/GYNs.
Gynecological visits can help address concerns you may have about your reproductive system. Some conditions or concerns an OB/GYN can help with are:
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OB/GYNs have special training to be able to diagnose and treat conditions related to women's health and the female reproductive system. Visits to an OB/GYN clinic play a key role in maintaining your health and wellness and in staying one step ahead of chronic conditions. Some common health services provided by an OB/GYN include:
Pap smears
Pelvic exams
Breast exams/ breast cancer screening
STI tests
Ultrasounds
Fertility/ Contraceptive counseling
If you are dealing with a health concern or medical condition, an OB/GYN has the training to perform a number of surgeries and procedures such as:
Removal of cysts on ovaries (ovarian cysts)
Uterine fibroid removal
Cesarean sections
Hysterectomy
Reconstructive surgery
Endometriosis therapy
Depending on your health history or health concerns, an OB/GYN may provide a referral for a specialist such as an endocrinologist or a doctor of urogynecology.
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Gynecologists use pelvic exams and pap smears to examine your genitals and reproductive system for abnormalities and screen for cancers, sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and cysts. The ACOG recommends that women begin getting pelvic exams and pap tests at age of 21.
Pelvic exams generally include: - A visual examination of the vulva - An examination of the vagina and cervix using a speculum, an instrument that holds open the walls of the vagina to allow the gynecologist to visually examine the cervix - An internal exam to check for abnormalities, as well as the size and position of the uterus and ovaries
The pap test consists of: - Collection of cells from the cervix taken with a small brush
Pap tests are used to screen for cervical cancer and are usually conducted at the same time as a pelvic exam.
The ACOG recommends that women receive pap tests every 3 years starting at the age of 21. Sesame offers convenient and affordable visits with quality doctors so you can get the care you need without any surprise bills or hidden fees. Just real, quality care at upfront prices. Book a visit today.
Seeing an obstetrician-gynecologist (OB/GYN) is your opportunity to get any questions or concerns you have about your reproductive health answered and addressed.
If you have any health concerns, or just want more information, it's a good idea to go to your appointment with a list of questions you may want to ask. Specific questions may vary depending on your age, sexual activity, and health history. Some common questions are:
Do I need any vaccinations?
Am I at high risk for any developing cancers or infections?
How do I reduce the risk of breast cancer or cervical cancer?
How often should I get cancer screenings and breast exams?
How heavy should my menstrual flow be?
What should I expect while going through menopause?
What type of contraception is best for me?
How often should I get tested for an STI?
Some women feel more comfortable seeing a female gynecologist. When you book a visit on Sesame, you get to pick the doctor you want to see - not the one your insurance company makes you see.
It depends. Some gynecologists are trained to perform hysterectomies, surgeries that remove the uterus. Gynecological oncologists also perform these procedures.
Your gynecologist may recommend a hysterectomy to treat:
If you are experiencing any of these conditions or have any questions about whether or not you may need a hysterectomy, book a visit with a real, licensed gynecologist on Sesame. Our providers can help you decide what treatment is right for you for a simple, upfront price.
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends that women first see an OB/GYN between the ages of 13-15. Many issues and concerns before the age of 13 can be handled by a primary care physician.
A patient's first OB/GYN visit will often cover development. There may be personal questions about puberty, menstrual periods, and sexual activity. Most girls will not need a pap smear or pelvic exam on their first visit unless they are experiencing abnormal pain or bleeding. Often, the OB/GYN conducts a general health exam and an external genital exam.
A general health exam includes:
An external genital exam includes:
The external genital exam can help girls learn about pregnancy prevention, sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and understand more generally the anatomy of the female reproductive system.
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An OB/GYN appointment can often cost up to $300 with insurance.
Save 60% on your next OB/GYN appointment when you book with Sesame. On Sesame, you can connect directly with real, qualified gynecologists in Farmington Hills, MI who can treat a wide range of women's health conditions for one affordable, upfront price. No copays. No surprise bills. Just the care you need.
Yes! Reproductive endocrinologists (REs) are OB/GYNs who specialize in diagnosing and treating issues related to infertility, pregnancy issues, and hormone functions. Women or couples see REs for a number of reasons, including:
REs may conduct additional tests to assess reproductive health, including:
In some cases, reproductive endocrinologists can help with assisted reproductive techniques like in vitro fertilization and reproductive counseling.
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Have questions or concerns about your reproductive health? Book a consult on Sesame with a licensed OB/GYN to discuss any health concerns you may have.
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