Find top-rated OB-GYNs in Pearland, TX

Obstetrics and gynecology are two branches of medicine that focus on women’s health issues. Specifically, obstetrics focuses on pre-conception, pregnancy, childbirth, and post-delivery health care. Gynecology focuses on concerns and conditions specific to women and girls, especially those of the reproductive system.

Even though obstetrics and gynecology are distinct branches of medicine, the same doctor typically practices both. An OB/GYN has the advanced training and clinical experience to provide primary care for women while offering specialized care modalities focusing on pregnancy.

Young women should start seeing an OB/GYN regularly around the age of 13. Initial visits may consist only of discussions about puberty, development, and safe sex practices. Women should see an OB/GYN annually for a check-up to screen for health conditions related to the reproductive system and to monitor overall wellness.

Medical services provided by an OB/GYN include:

• Comprehensive gynecological exams
  
• Treatment for acute conditions
  
• Birth control counseling
  
• Infertility counseling and treatment
  
• Treatment for menopause symptoms
  
• Diagnosis and treatment of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs)
  
• Cancer screenings, prevention, early detection, and treatment planning
  
• Prenatal care & delivery services
  
  

Common Gynelogical Conditions

With over a decade of training, OB/GYNs have the experience to treat hundreds of illnesses, diseases, and conditions related to the female reproductive system.

Common conditions treated by OB/GYNs include:

• Endometriosis: a disorder in which tissue that usually grows inside the uterus grows outside of it.
  
• Ovarian cysts: fluid-filled sacs that develop on or inside an ovary.
  
• Uterine fibroids: noncancerous growths of the uterus made up of muscle and connective tissue cells.
  
• Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS): a hormone imbalance condition characterized by multiple small cysts in the ovaries, abnormal bleeding, infertility, and other symptoms.
  
• Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID): an infection caused by bacteria that can spread from the vagina to the reproductive organs.
  
• Urinary Tract Infections (UTI): Bacterial infections of any part of the urinary system, including the bladder and urethra.
  
• Menopausal Symptoms: Hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings, vaginal dryness, etc., due to hormonal changes associated with aging and menopause.
• Breast Health Issues: Regular screenings for lumps, cysts, fibroids, and other breast abnormalities are essential during an OB/GYN visit to maintain good breast health over time.
  
• Abnormal uterine bleeding (AUB): changes in menstrual bleeding patterns such as heavy flows, prolonged periods, irregular intervals between cycles, frequent spotting between cycles, or no period at all.
  
• Cervical cancer: cancer that develops in cells within the cervix – the lower part of a woman’s uterus where it connects with her vagina.
  
• Vulvovaginitis: inflammation of both the vulva and vagina due to infections such as yeast infections and bacterial vaginosis (BV).
  
  

Exams and Screenings

As part of routine care, OB/GYNs perform physical exams to assess the patient's overall health and check for any irregularities or abnormalities. They will examine a woman's breasts, abdomen, and other areas as needed during these exams. They may also use ultrasound technology to investigate any issues detected during the exam. Depending on the situation, they may order additional tests, such as blood work or imaging studies, for a comprehensive evaluation.

In addition to a physical exam, OB/GYNs perform pelvic exams to check for abnormalities. The exam typically includes an external examination of the vulva and vagina and an internal examination using a speculum instrument to view the cervix, uterus, and ovaries. During this procedure, a healthcare provider may also take samples for laboratory testing or perform other tests such as Pap smears or HPV testing.

A pap smear is a simple test that detects abnormal cells on the cervix, which can be an early indication of cervical cancer. During a pap smear, a healthcare provider will use a small brush or spatula to collect cells from the surface of the cervix. The sample is then sent to a laboratory for analysis. A positive result may indicate that further testing or treatment is needed to prevent or treat cervical cancer.

Questions To Ask Your OB/GYN

If you have any health concerns or want more information, go to your appointment with a list of questions you may want to ask. Specific questions may vary depending on age, sexual activity, and health history.

Some common questions include:

• 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?
  
  

Booking an Appointment

Here’s how to book an OB/GYN appointment on Sesame:

• Search "OB/GYN" in Sesame’s search bar
  
• Explore the list of nearby service providers
  
• Choose from video or in-person services
  
• Choose a time that best accommodates your schedule
  
• Book your visit!
  
  

Yep, it’s that easy. Don’t wait to get the health care you need. Book an in-person or video visit today.