Obstetrics and gynaecology

Obstetrics and gynaecology

Obstetrics and Gynaecology (OB-GYN) is a combined medical specialty focused on women's health, specifically reproductive and sexual health. It includes two distinct but closely related fields:

1. Obstetrics

• Focus: The care of women during pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum (after delivery).
• Responsibilities:
• Monitoring maternal and fetal health.
• Managing high-risk pregnancies, such as preeclampsia or gestational diabetes.
• Assisting in labor and delivery, including vaginal births, cesarean sections, and emergency obstetric interventions.
• Postnatal care to ensure the mother's recovery and newborn health.

2. Gynaecology

• Focus: The diagnosis and treatment of conditions related to the female reproductive system, including the uterus, ovaries, fallopian tubes, and vagina.
• Responsibilities:
• Routine health checks like Pap smears and breast exams.
• Managing menstrual disorders, such as irregular periods or heavy bleeding.
• Treating gynecological conditions like endometriosis, fibroids, and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
• Managing hormonal imbalances and menopausal symptoms.
• Performing gynecological surgeries, such as hysterectomy or laparoscopy.

Common Conditions Managed

1. Pregnancy and Delivery Complications:
2. Miscarriage, ectopic pregnancy, and preterm labor.
3. Multiple pregnancies (e.g., twins or triplets).
4. Gynecological Disorders:
5. Infertility and reproductive health issues.
6. Sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
7. Cancers of the reproductive organs (e.g., cervical or ovarian cancer).
8. Pelvic and Menstrual Health:
9. Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID).
10. Dysmenorrhea (painful periods).
11. Vaginal infections and disorders.

Subspecialties

• Maternal-Fetal Medicine (MFM): Focused on high-risk pregnancies.
• Gynecologic Oncology: Treating cancers of the reproductive organs.
• Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility (REI): Addressing infertility and hormonal disorders.
• Urogynecology: Managing pelvic floor disorders, such as incontinence or prolapse.

Treatment Approaches

• Medical: Hormonal therapies, antibiotics, and other medications.
• Surgical: Minimally invasive surgeries, traditional open surgeries, or robotic-assisted procedures.
• Preventive Care: Screening programs for cancers and other reproductive health issues.