Obstetrician Vs Gynecologist in Atlanta and telling the difference
Obstetrician and Gynecologist – learning the difference
An Obstetrician specifically deals with the welfare of the pregnant woman and her baby. During pregnancy, a number of complications can arise such as ectopic pregnancy, which is a condition where the embryo is in a fallopian tube, fetal distress caused by compression, problems with the placenta, or high blood pressure which can be a forerunner of a serious illness called pre-eclampsia.
The obstetrician is trained in these and many other complications of childbirth and ensures both mother and baby are safely guided through all of the phases of pregnancy and childbirth. Whether the baby is delivered vaginally or through a planned or emergency caesarian section an obstetrician is trained to handle any change that is presented during the natural, but sometimes complex process of childbirth.
Following delivery, an obstetrician is focused on the health of the mother and child ensuring that both make the transition into routine daily life without deadly complications.
While most gynecologists are also obstetricians, the field of gynecology focuses on all other aspects of a woman’s reproductive health from the onset of puberty through menopause and beyond.
Women see their gynecologists for their annual Pap tests and pelvic exam. Other reasons a woman would see her gynecologist are for:
- infections or any pain or discomfort in the uterus, genitals, or breasts.
- Gynecologists also assist with infertility issues and contraception.
Gynecology diagnoses and treats diseases of the reproductive organs including cancer of the ovaries, uterus, cervix, vagina, and fallopian tubes. A gynecologist also treats prolapse of the pelvic organs. This is a condition usually present in postmenopausal women with weakened pelvic muscles that cannot support the uterus or bladder properly.
Other diseases treated are yeast and bacterial infections, irregular and painful menstruation, painful intercourse, and other diseases related to menopause which may require surgery.
Gynecology encompasses specific surgical procedures related to female reproductive organs. The most common surgical procedures are:
- Tubal ligation – a permanent form of birth control
- Hysterectomy- Removal of the uterus
- Oophorectomy – removal of the ovaries
- Salpingectomy – removal of the fallopian tubes
- Cone biopsy -remove precancerous cells in the cervix identified during a pap test
OBGYN near Northside Hospital
At Atlanta OBGYN we are fully focused on providing preventive health care and treatment for female diseases, for women of all ages as well as providing full support for mother and baby from conception to birth. Whether you are having your first baby, dealing with menopause, or anything in between, we have a full complement of medical specialists ready to help you. Book a consultation with your top Alpharetta and Atlanta OBGYN for your obstetrics and gynecology care.