The fields of obstetrics and gynecology focus on female health. Normally, medical professionals in the two careers work closely together to ensure comprehensive care for women. However, some healthcare professionals choose to specialize in one field or the other.
Gynecology is the study of the female reproductive system and female health issues, including genital disorders, menopause, and birth control. Physicians who practice gynecology may also treat patients with urinary tract infections, menstrual problems, abnormal bleeding, and hormone disorders. Gynecologists are commonly known as ob-gyns or OB/GYNs. The ob/gyn profession requires extensive post-graduate training, with physicians often choosing to subspecialize in specific patient populations or treatment methods.하이푸시술
Obstetrics deals with pregnancy and childbirth, with a particular focus on the safety of the mother and fetus. A woman’s ob-gyn will provide advice on diet and exercise throughout her pregnancy, conduct ultrasound tests to monitor fetal growth, oversee the birthing process, and provide after-care for both mother and infant. Some ob-gyns also subspecialize in the management of certain pregnancy complications such as ectopic pregnancies, gestational diabetes, or preeclampsia.
An ob-gyn who specializes in gynecologic oncology will assess and treat patients with cancers of the uterus, fallopian tubes, vagina, or vulva. These specialists often use radiation, chemotherapy, and surgery to treat these conditions. Some ob-gyns who are subspecialized in urogynecology (the study of the uterus and its disorders) will also treat pelvic pain, urinary tract infections, endometriosis, and a variety of other conditions.
Some ob-gyns will also choose to subspecialize in hospice and palliative medicine, treating dying patients. These specialists will often provide end of life care for women with gynecologic cancers, as well as for those with life-limiting illnesses such as pre-eclampsia and gestational diabetes.
Choosing to become an ob-gyn requires rigorous post-graduate training, with most doctors undergoing a four-year residency program that is designed to prepare them for their specialized career. Some ob-gyns choose to further subspecialize, with some specialties including urogynecology, gynecologic oncology, or perinatal medicine. To become board certified, a physician must pass a series of exams administered by the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology and commit to continuing education to keep their certification up to date. Physicians who fail to keep their board certification risk losing their license to practice ob-gynecology. To determine a doctor’s board status, patients can look for their name on the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology website or contact their practice directly.강남역산부인과