Gynaecologists are specially-trained doctors that ensure the optimal health performance of women, most especially their reproductive systems. On the other hand, obstetricians focus more on pre-conception, pregnancy, childbirth, and the reproduction system. The difference between these two distinct professions is that one is broader than the other, which is gynaecology. Gynaecologists deal with a vast range of issues, which include, but are not limited to obstetrics, hormone disorders, sexually transmitted infections (STIs), menstruation, and fertility. A professional gynaecologist undergoes 8 years of intense training on gynaecology. Such an individual has a certification from an examining organization, like the American Board of Gynaecologists (ABOG) in the United States. Also, he or she is registered as a professional gynaecologist by a professional organization. In the US, practising gynaecologists can get registered by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (ACOG).

Obstetricians undergo a four-year residency program in obstetrics and gynaecology, after which they graduate from the medical school. Their training cuts across pre-conception, pregnancy, labour and childbirth, health complications after childbirth, and various areas of genetics. In the United States, these medical professionals are certified by the American Osteopathic Board of Obstetrics and Gynaecology. Obstetricians perform the following roles during a woman’s pregnancy:

Roles Of An Obstetrician

Here are some of the roles an obstetrician performs:

• Provide medical advice on what to eat, how to meditate and exercise, and other health-related areas.
• Keep track of your health progress and that of your baby. Part of their routine checks includes performing ultrasounds, tests, and measurements.
• Look out of medical conditions that can affect pregnancy and the baby’s health, including diabetes, high blood pressure, genetic disorders, and infections.
• Map out ways you can cope with body pains, morning sickness, heartburn, and other pregnancy-related issues.
• Answer all questions about pregnancy and childbirth.
• Help you with the delivery process.
• Check your health progress while you recuperate.

Roles Of A Gynaecologist

You can visit a gynaecologist when you notice specific health issues that concern abnormal bleeding, vaginal pain, your vulvar and pelvic. Here are some of the roles of gynaecologists when treating certain medical conditions:

• Provide family planning, which includes sterilization, contraception, and pregnancy termination.
• Health issues that cut across menstruation, fertility, pregnancy, and menopause.
• Tissue problems around the pelvic region, including the muscles and ligaments.
• Sexually transmitted infections, urinary and faecal incontinence, and polycystic ovary syndrome. 
• Breast cancer, reproductive tract cancer, and pregnancy-related tumours/
• Breast disorders, fibroids, ovarian cysts, vulvar and vaginal ulcers, and other non-terminal changes.
• Premalignant conditions, including cervical dysplasia and endometrial dysplasia.
• Issues with the female reproductive tracts.
• Endometriosis which affects the reproductive system.
• Emergency care in the area of gynaecology.
• Sexual dysfunction and sexuality – including health issues from bisexual and same-sex relationships.
• Pelvic inflammatory diseases like abscesses.

Right Age To See An Obstetrician Or Gynaecologist

Any girl or woman can be treated, regardless of age. According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (ACOG), the right age from which you can visit an obstetrician or a gynaecologist is 13 – 15 years. As you grow, you build a relationship with your doctor, making it possible to ask a wide variety of questions about your sexuality, menstruation, disorders, medical issues, and many more. This situation makes it easier to receive adequate treatment and guidance.

If you would like to reach out to a reputable medical specialist in these fields, please visit this link: Obstetrician-Gynecologist.