Find top-rated OB-GYNs in Santa Ana, CA

An OB/GYN is a medical doctor specializing in female reproductive health. The initials “OB” and “GYN” refer to two separate medical fields usually practiced together.

Obstetrics deals 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 ectopic pregnancies (the fetus grows outside the uterus). Obstetricians and endocrinologists can also provide therapy to help with fertility and pregnancy issues.

Gynecologists specialize in the female reproductive system and treat various women's health conditions.

Gynecologists help women with reproductive issues from their first period through menopause.

Gynecologists will also perform several 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 also provide services like:

• 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)
  
  

Exams and Screenings

Yale Medicine recommends that girls start seeing an OB/GYN between the age of 13-15. It is generally recommended that after this first visit, girls and women should see an OB/GYN every year for a routine checkup. More visits may be necessary for individuals with a medical history of gynecological issues or those at risk for gynecological conditions.

During a general physical exam:

• Patient’s height, weight, and body mass index (BMI) are measured
  
• Blood pressure is taken
  
• Lungs are auscultated for any breathing abnormalities
  
• Heart rate and rhythm assessed to check for heart murmurs or arrhythmias
  
• Abdomen examined for any tenderness, organ enlargement, or hernias
  
• Extremities checked for swelling or joint stiffness
  
• Skin examined for lesions, rashes, bumps, etc.
  
• Eyesight tested with an eye chart
  
  

A pelvic exam is a routine medical procedure used to examine the reproductive organs in women. A pelvic exam can help diagnose any underlying health issues causing symptoms such as abnormal vaginal bleeding or pain during intercourse.

During a pelvic exam:

• The healthcare provider will start by examining both legs for any abnormalities
  
• The vulva is visually examined for bumps, irritation, sores, or redness
  
• The OB/GYN uses a speculum–a plastic or metal device that spreads open the vaginal walls–to conduct an internal exam of the vagina
  
• The OB/GYN will insert two lubricated fingers into the vagina while applying pressure to various areas to feel for any signs of infection or other irregularities
  
• Samples of cervical cells may be taken for further testing if needed (pap smear)
  
  

If any abnormalities are detected, samples of cervical cells may be collected for comprehensive examination. This is called a pap smear. When performing a pap smear, the OB/GYN will hold open the vaginal walls with a speculum and use a small brush or swab to collect cervical cells. Then, OB/GYNs examine these cells under a microscope for signs of infection or disease.

The Importance of Pelvic Exams and Pap Smears

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report that nearly 94,000 women were diagnosed with a form of gynecologic cancer every year between 2012 and 2016. Uterine cancer was the most commonly diagnosed form of gynecologic cancer, and vaginal cancer was the least common.

Pap smears and pelvic exams have dramatically reduced deaths caused by gynecological cancers. The Pap smear was introduced in the 1940s and has significantly lowered the incidence of gynecological cancer mortality by over 70% since the 1950s. Currently, regular Pap screening tests have been shown to reduce the incidence and mortality of gynecological cancers by 80%. These simple screening tests are crucial to a woman’s health and preventing serious diseases.

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 your 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.