Last Updated on November 27, 2025 by Bilal Hasdemir

Many of us wonder what obstetrician-gynecologists do and if they perform surgeries. At Liv Hospital, we want to clear up what OB/GYN doctors do. Gynecologists are key in women’s health, giving preventive care and doing surgeries.
An OB/GYN doctor knows a lot about women’s health, from reproductive issues to pregnancy and childbirth. To find out more about the surgeries gynecologists do, it’s important to know their training and services.
Gynecologists are key in women’s healthcare, giving care that covers both prevention and surgery. They handle a lot of health issues, from routine visits to treating diseases. They are the main doctors for women’s reproductive health.
Gynecologists do a lot, like yearly check-ups and talks about birth control. They also screen for cervical cancer and STIs. They can handle issues like irregular periods, pain, and trouble getting pregnant.
They know how to treat health problems with medicine and surgery. They do surgeries like removing the uterus and tying tubes. Their training lets them give care that fits each patient’s needs.
To be a gynecologist, you need a lot of education and training. First, you go to medical school. Then, you do a four-year residency in obstetrics and gynecology. This teaches them how to handle many women’s health problems.
After that, they get certified by passing a tough test. This shows they can give top-notch care in their field.
Knowing what gynecologists do helps women see the full care they offer. It’s not just about prevention or surgery. It’s about making a big difference in women’s health and happiness.
Gynecologists are key in women’s health, handling surgeries too. We’ll look at the surgical side of gynecology. This includes the surgeries they do and their training.
Gynecologists do many surgeries, like hysterectomies and laparoscopic procedures. These surgeries help treat issues like fibroids, endometriosis, and cancers.
Some surgeries they do include:
To do these surgeries, gynecologists get a lot of training and must be certified. They learn both theory and practical skills.
First, they finish medical school. Then, they do years of residency training. Here, they practice surgeries under experienced surgeons.
To get certified, they pass a big exam. This exam checks their knowledge and skills, including surgery.
Gynecologists do many surgeries that are key for women’s health. These surgeries range from simple to complex, needing hospital stays.
A hysterectomy removes a woman’s uterus. There are different types, like total, partial, and radical. Each type removes different parts of the uterus and cervix.
Women might need a hysterectomy for many reasons. These include uterine fibroids, endometriosis, uterine prolapse, and some cancers.
| Type of Hysterectomy | Description | Common Indications |
|---|---|---|
| Total Hysterectomy | Removal of the uterus and cervix | Fibroids, Endometriosis, Cancer |
| Partial Hysterectomy | Removal of the uterus, leaving the cervix | Fibroids, Abnormal Bleeding |
| Radical Hysterectomy | Removal of the uterus, cervix, part of the vagina, and surrounding tissue | Cervical Cancer, Other Gynecologic Cancers |
Laparoscopic surgery is a minimally invasive method. It uses small incisions for a camera and tools. It’s used for conditions like endometriosis, ovarian cysts, and ectopic pregnancies.
This method has many benefits. It causes less pain, has shorter recovery times, and leaves smaller scars than open surgery.
Surgeries on the reproductive system fix many issues. They can correct structural problems or treat conditions like tubal blockages that affect fertility.
“Advances in surgical techniques, including minimally invasive surgery, have significantly improved the outcomes for women undergoing gynecological surgeries,” says, a leading gynecologist.
These surgeries aim to improve quality of life. They can also help with fertility.
For many women, their OB/GYN doctor is their main healthcare provider. But what does this specialty mean? An OB/GYN doctor, or obstetrician-gynecologist, specializes in women’s health. They focus on pregnancy, childbirth, and reproductive system disorders.
The term “OB/GYN” comes from Greek words. “Obstetrics” means “midwife” or childbirth, and “gynecology” means women’s health. Together, they form a dual specialty for pregnant women and female reproductive health.
Obstetricians handle pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum care. Gynecologists focus on the female reproductive system and its disorders. An OB/GYN doctor is trained in both, making them a key resource for women’s health.
To become a board-certified OB/GYN doctor, one must go through tough training and meet certain requirements. After medical school, they need a four-year residency in obstetrics and gynecology. This training prepares them for managing various women’s health issues.
After residency, OB/GYNs must pass a certification exam by the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology (ABOG). This exam checks their knowledge and skills in obstetrics and gynecology. To keep their certification, they must stay updated with medical advancements.
Understanding what an OB/GYN doctor is and their training helps women value their care. OB/GYN doctors provide essential care, from routine health checks to complex pregnancy management. They are vital in women’s healthcare.
Obstetrics deals with the care of women during pregnancy, childbirth, and after giving birth. It ensures the health of both the mother and the baby. Obstetricians give full care during these important times.
Prenatal care is key in obstetrics. It includes regular check-ups and monitoring for a healthy pregnancy. We watch the baby’s growth and the mother’s health, solving any problems that come up.
These steps help us spot problems early. This way, we can act quickly to keep both mother and baby safe.
When it’s time for labor and delivery, our main goal is a safe and healthy outcome. We watch how labor is going, help with pain, and decide on any needed interventions.
Key aspects of labor and delivery management include:
After the baby is born, we keep caring for the mother. We watch for any problems and help her heal. This includes checking for bleeding, infection, or other issues.
Postpartum care also involves supporting new mothers with breastfeeding and providing guidance on newborn care.
By giving full care from pregnancy to after birth, we aim for the best outcomes for our patients.
Gynecology is a key part of medicine that deals with women’s health outside of pregnancy. We, as healthcare providers, know how important gynecological care is for women’s health.
Preventive care is at the heart of gynecological services. We stress the importance of regular check-ups and screenings. These help find problems early.
These steps are key for catching and treating health issues early. They greatly improve women’s health outcomes.
Gynecologists are trained to find and treat many reproductive health problems. We use medical history, physical exams, and tests to spot issues like:
After finding a problem, we help patients create a treatment plan. This might include medicine, lifestyle changes, or surgery.
Menopause is a natural part of life, but it can bring uncomfortable symptoms. We offer full care to manage these symptoms, including:
We aim to enhance the quality of life for women in menopause. We help with symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, and mood swings.
In conclusion, gynecology is vital for non-pregnancy reproductive health. We are dedicated to giving thorough and caring care to women at all stages of their reproductive life.
Obstetrics and gynecology are two medical fields that help women with different health needs. Obstetrics deals with pregnancy, childbirth, and care after birth. Gynecology looks at women’s reproductive health in general, not just during pregnancy.
Obstetric care focuses on pregnancy. It includes prenatal care, labor, delivery, and postpartum support. Obstetricians watch over the health of both the mother and the baby.
Gynecology covers a wide range of women’s health services. This includes routine check-ups, screenings, and treatments for various conditions. Gynecologists also help with menopause management.
Obstetrics and gynecology share many responsibilities. Conditions treated by gynecologists can affect pregnancy, and pregnancy can impact gynecological health. So, obstetricians and gynecologists often work together.
For example, a woman with a pre-existing gynecological condition may need care from both her obstetrician and gynecologist during pregnancy. This ensures her health is managed fully.
Many doctors choose to practice in both obstetrics and gynecology. This way, they can offer complete care to their patients. They address both pregnancy-related needs and general reproductive health concerns.
Some reasons doctors practice in both areas include:
OB/GYN specialists are key in finding and treating health issues related to women’s reproductive system. They use many diagnostic tools and technologies. This helps them give accurate diagnoses and create effective treatment plans.
OB/GYN specialists use different tools to check women’s health. Some common methods include:
These tests are vital for spotting issues like cervical cancer, endometriosis, and fibroids. With advanced tech, specialists can give precise diagnoses. They then tailor treatments to fit each patient’s needs.
After tests are done, OB/GYN specialists look at the results to find any health problems. As one specialist says,
“Accurate diagnosis is the foundation of effective treatment. By combining clinical expertise with advanced diagnostic technologies, we can develop targeted treatment plans that address the unique needs of each patient.”
Looking at test results means considering the patient’s medical history, symptoms, and other important factors. Based on this, specialists make treatment plans. These plans might include medicine, surgery, or other treatments.
Effective treatment plans are tailored to the individual. They consider the specific condition, overall health, and personal preferences. By using diagnostic findings and clinical judgment, OB/GYN specialists provide top-notch care. This improves patient outcomes.
OB/GYN specialists are key in managing women’s health. They offer treatments beyond surgery. Their care ranges from prevention to handling complex reproductive health issues.
Non-surgical treatments are vital in women’s health care. These include:
These treatments are often combined for full care.
Medication is key in managing reproductive health. For example:
Effective medication management needs careful monitoring and adjustments for each patient.
OB/GYN specialists often work with other healthcare providers. This ensures complete care. They may work with:
Knowing what happens at a visit to an obstetrician-gynecologist can ease your worries. We aim to guide you through this process. This way, you’ll feel informed and supported.
Your first visit with an obstetrician-gynecologist is key for your reproductive health. We start by collecting your medical history. This includes any past pregnancies, surgeries, or health issues. This info helps us tailor care to you.
At the visit, you’ll get a detailed check-up. This might include a pelvic exam, Pap smear, or other tests based on your age and health. We make sure you’re comfortable during the exam. We’ll explain each step clearly.
| Procedure | Description | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Medical History | Gathering information about your health, previous pregnancies, and surgeries. | To understand your overall health and provide personalized care. |
| Pelvic Exam | A physical examination of the reproductive organs. | To check for any abnormalities or health issues. |
| Pap Smear | A screening test for cervical cancer. | To detect abnormal cell changes in the cervix. |
Regular check-ups are vital for your reproductive health. These visits help us monitor your health and address any concerns. Problem-focused visits, on the other hand, focus on specific health issues or symptoms.
We encourage you to ask questions during your visit, whether it’s routine or focused on a problem. Open communication is key to the best care.
Having a long-term relationship with your obstetrician-gynecologist is good for your health. We aim to create a supportive environment where you feel comfortable discussing your health.
By understanding your health needs and preferences, we can tailor our care to suit you. This ensures you get the best treatment and support.
Women’s healthcare involves knowing the roles of gynecologists and obstetricians. Many OB/GYN doctors handle both types of care. Yet, there are times when one specialty is better than the other.
Gynecologists focus on the female reproductive system, excluding pregnancy. They are best for routine check-ups, Pap smears, and menstrual health issues. If you have irregular periods, pelvic pain, or abnormal discharge, a gynecologist can help.
Common reasons to see a gynecologist include:
Obstetricians specialize in pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum care. If you’re pregnant or planning to be, see an obstetrician. They offer prenatal care, monitor health, and manage delivery.
Pregnancy-related care includes:
Some conditions need both gynecologists and obstetricians. For example, a woman with a high-risk pregnancy may need an obstetrician. Yet, she might also need gynecological care for something like cervical dysplasia. An OB/GYN doctor can handle both, using their knowledge in both areas.
Knowing when to see a gynecologist versus when to see an obstetrician is key. It ensures you get the right care for your needs. Whether it’s routine reproductive health or pregnancy care, choosing the right specialist is vital for your health.
OB/GYN specialists play a key role in women’s health. They handle everything from surgeries to prenatal care. They also focus on preventive screenings and managing reproductive health issues.
These specialists are experts in both obstetrics and gynecology. This means they can tackle a wide range of health concerns. They help with pregnancy care and general reproductive health, ensuring top-notch care for each patient.
In summary, OB/GYN specialists are vital in women’s healthcare. They diagnose, treat, and manage many health issues. Their work goes beyond surgeries and pregnancy care, aiming for a holistic approach to women’s health and well-being.
OB/GYN stands for Obstetrician-Gynecologist. This is a doctor who focuses on women’s health. They deal with pregnancy and childbirth, and also with female reproductive health.
Obstetrics is about pregnancy and childbirth. Gynecology is about female reproductive health, including check-ups and treatments for conditions.
Yes, gynecologists can do surgeries. This includes things like hysterectomies and laparoscopic procedures.
OB/GYN specialists get a lot of education. They go to medical school for four years and then do four years of residency. This makes them experts in their field.
An OB/GYN gives full care. This includes check-ups, treatments for health issues, and help with pregnancy and childbirth.
See a gynecologist for health issues like abnormal bleeding. See an obstetrician for pregnancy care. Sometimes, you might need to see both.
At your first visit, your OB/GYN will do a physical exam. They will also take your medical history and talk about your health concerns.
OB/GYN specialists use tests like imaging and lab tests to find health issues. They then create treatment plans, which might include medicine or surgery.
Yes, OB/GYN specialists can offer non-surgical treatments. This includes using medicine for various health issues.
Many doctors do both because the two areas are closely related. They need to understand both pregnancy and non-pregnancy health to give full care.
Regular visits with an OB/GYN are key for reproductive health. They help prevent problems and catch any issues early.
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