In the field of medical sciences, obstetrics and gynaecology are essential for the well-being of a woman. Although both these are specialists and work together to improve a woman's health, they have different roles in the field of medicine. For those unaware, understanding the similarities and differences between obstetrics and gynaecology can be confusing without knowing their roles. Here, you will learn more about it to determine which doctor to approach for your needs.
These are doctors who specialise in the female reproductive system. They evaluate and treat issues with the reproductive systems like infertility, menstrual disorders, sexually transmitted diseases, etc. A gynaecologist also provides advice on preventive care like giving breast exams, pap smears and family planning counselling.
The gynaecology division is part of OBGYN, which deals with caring for female reproductive health. A professional who exclusively specialises in this domain is called a gynaecologist and is visited by women of all ages, from puberty to menopause and beyond. A woman who has concerns about her reproductive organs, like the uterus, vagina, fallopian tube and ovaries, or breasts, should visit a gynaecologist. Women who take precautionary care also consult their gynaecologist for annual checkups. Along with checkups, a gynaecologist also performs
A gynaecologist is involved throughout the entire journey of a woman's life, from puberty until menopause and beyond. They also suggest family planning and contraceptive counselling for women who are not ready for pregnancy so that there is a reduced risk of unwanted pregnancy. So, if you are a woman seeking a health professional from your teenage years and pregnancy to your entire life, consult a gynaecologist.
Obstetricians, on the other hand, are specialists who take care of pregnancy from conception to delivery. They monitor the mother and the baby's health and provide pre and post-natal care to ensure the mother-to-be has a healthy pregnancy. They also specialise in complex deliveries like fetal distress or breech birth and other complications that arise during pregnancy.
Obstetrics is also a part of OBGYN and is a branch of medicine that dispenses care to the unborn baby and the pregnant woman. A person who specialises in this field is called an obstetrician and takes care of the women's pregnancy journey and also handles critical conditions like
These healthcare providers are trained to help a woman deliver the baby through the vagina or a cesarean section and also to handle any complications that occur during childbirth. After the delivery, the obstetrician guides the mother to have better health and prevent complications. If you are pregnant, it is best that you consult a good obstetrician who can help you go through pregnancy and delivery for a better outcome.
An OBGYN is a doctor who is trained in both gynaecology and obstetrics. They provide comprehensive care through women's reproductive years, from puberty to adolescence. The difference between OBGYN and gynaecology is that in addition to serving as a gynaecologist, OBGYNs also specialise in pregnant woman care and childbirth management. They offer prenatal care, monitor the health of the mother and the fetus during pregnancy, and assist in labour and delivery. These doctors also address pregnancy-related problems like high blood pressure, gestational diabetes, fetal abnormalities, etc.
When you think about Obstetrics Vs. Gynaecology, there are some differences. A gynaecologist specialises in evaluating, treating and managing conditions and issues related to female reproductive health. Obstetrics focuses on the care of the pregnant woman and her fetus, childbirth and the postpartum period. Some gynaecologists also offer obstetric care, but not all gynaecologists specialise in it. Similarly, many obstetricians can offer gynaecological care, but many prefer to focus on obstetrics and do not provide gynaecological consultations.
Both gynaecologists and obstetricians do that same basic medical education. They should attain a basic bachelor's degree by attending medical school, which typically lasts five (5)years. After completing their medical degree, they should do a residency in gynaecology and obstetrics, which can take three(3) more years. In their residency, they get extensive training in evaluating, treating, and managing pregnancy and delivery. There is not much difference in receiving training as both get similar training in surgical procedures, including hysterectomies and C-sections, most of our Obstetrics Gynaec doctor go ahead and have further training in their preferred sub-specialty.
To obtain certification, the physician should complete a residency in gynaecology and obstetrics, clear a written and oral examination and meet the ongoing educational requirements. Besides getting certified, gynaecologists and obstetricians must also get a license to practise medicine in a particular state. Licensing requirements vary as per the residing state but typically involve completing education and training in medicine, clearing a licensing exam and meeting the continuous educational requirements.
After training in gynaecology and obstetrics, physicians may practice in one or both fields.
Although there is a difference between gynaecologists and obstetricians, both have similar training and skills. Obstetricians undergo extra training in managing pregnancy and childbirth-related complications, whereas gynaecologists are trained in the overall well-being of the woman.
Choosing between the two is based on what healthcare you need. If it is general gynaecological services, opt for a gynaecologist. For pregnancy, choose an obstetrician.
The main difference is that obstetrics focuses on pregnancy and childbirth, while gynaecology deals with a woman's reproductive health issues throughout her life.
Typically, every obstetrician is trained as a gynaecologist. Although obstetrics and gynaecology are closely related to similar medical specialities, they are distinct.
