OBGYN FAQ

An OBGYN, or obstetrician-gynecologist, is a medical doctor who specializes in the care of women's reproductive health. They provide care for pregnant women, and also specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of gynecological conditions such as abnormal periods, pelvic pain, and cancer of the reproductive organs.

Gynecologists, also known as obstetrician-gynecologists (OB-GYNs), play a vital role in the healthcare of women throughout their lives. They provide a wide range of services, from routine check-ups and screenings to more complex procedures.

During a routine check-up, a gynecologist will perform a physical examination, including a pelvic exam and breast exam. They may also order laboratory tests, such as pap smears and mammograms, to screen for potential health issues. In addition, they may provide guidance on contraception options, such as birth control pills or intrauterine devices (IUDs), to prevent pregnancy.

Gynecologists also provide care and treatment for a variety of conditions related to the female reproductive system. This can include managing symptoms of menopause, such as hot flashes and vaginal dryness, as well as treating conditions like endometriosis and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). They also specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of cancer of the reproductive organs, such as ovarian and cervical cancer.

Gynecologists also play a critical role in the care of women during pregnancy and childbirth. They provide prenatal care, including routine check-ups, ultrasound evaluations, and delivery of babies. They also help women who are experiencing difficulties with infertility, such as in-vitro fertilization (IVF) and other assisted reproductive technologies (ART).

Overall, a gynecologist is a vital healthcare provider for women, providing essential care and treatment throughout their lives. They are trained and experienced in the diagnosis, treatment and management of a wide range of female reproductive health issues and concerns.

OBGYNs provide a wide range of services, including:

• Prenatal care and delivery
• Gynecological exams and screenings
• Birth control counseling and management
• Treatment for menstrual disorders and menopause
• Treatment for sexually transmitted infections
• Treatment for gynecological cancers
• Surgery, such as hysterectomies and tubal ligations

OB/GYNs also provide:

1. annual pelvic exams,
2. Pap tests,
3. breast exams,
4. contraceptive counseling,
5. prenatal care,
6. delivery, 
7. postpartum care.
8. endometriosis treatment,
9. fibroids treatment, 
10. polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) treatment, 
11. provide care for menopausal women.

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends that women start having annual gynecological exams at age 21, or when they become sexually active. Women over the age of 21 should schedule an annual exam, which includes a Pap test and a pelvic exam. After age 30, women with normal Pap test results may be able to have a Pap test every three years.

Yes, even if you are not currently sexually active, it is important to have regular gynecological exams. These exams can help detect problems early and provide preventative care.

During a gynecological exam, your OBGYN will perform a physical exam, which may include a breast exam, a pelvic exam, and a Pap test. They may also ask you about your medical history and any symptoms you may be experiencing.

Yes, you are welcome to bring a friend or family member with you to your appointment.

You should bring your insurance card and a list of any medications you are currently taking. It's also a good idea to bring a list of any questions you may have for the doctor.

Appointments can be made by calling our office, visiting our website, or through our patient portal.

Please contact our office as soon as possible if you need to cancel or reschedule your appointment. We will do our best to accommodate your schedule.

A pelvic exam is a physical examination of a woman's reproductive organs. During a pelvic exam, the OB/GYN will visually inspect the vulva, cervix, and uterus, and may also perform a manual examination of the uterus and ovaries.

A Pap test, also known as a Pap smear, is a screening test for cervical cancer. During a Pap test, the OB/GYN will take a sample of cells from the cervix and send it to a laboratory for analysis.

An HPV test is a screening test for human papillomavirus, which can cause cervical cancer. The test is done by taking a sample of cells from the cervix and sending it to a laboratory for analysis.

There are several types of birth control available, including hormonal methods (such as the pill, patch, and ring), barrier methods (such as condoms and diaphragms), intrauterine devices (IUDs), and sterilization procedures (such as tubal ligation or vasectomy). Your OB/GYN can help you choose the best method for you based on your individual needs and preferences.

A prenatal visit is a visit with an OB/GYN during pregnancy. During a prenatal visit, the OB/GYN will monitor the health of both the mother and the baby, and may perform tests such as ultrasound and blood tests. They will also provide guidance and advice on nutrition, exercise, and other aspects of pregnancy.

Postpartum care is the care provided to a woman after giving birth. This can include follow-up visits with an OB/GYN, as well as assistance with breastfeeding and other issues related to recovery after childbirth.

A hysteroscopy is a procedure in which an OB/GYN uses a thin, lighted scope to examine the inside of the uterus. The scope is inserted through the cervix, and can help diagnose and treat conditions such as polyps, fibroids, or abnormal bleeding.

A laparoscopy is a procedure in which an OB/GYN uses a thin, lighted scope to examine the inside of the abdomen and pelvis. The scope is inserted through small incisions in the abdomen, and can help diagnose and treat conditions such as endometriosis, ovarian cysts, or pelvic pain.

Endometriosis is a condition in which the tissue that normally lines the uterus grows outside of it, causing pain, heavy periods, and infertility. Treatment options include medication, surgery, and hormone therapy.

Early signs of pregnancy include a missed period, breast tenderness, fatigue, and nausea.

Heavy or painful periods can be managed with medication, such as birth control pills or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), or with surgery.

Abnormal vaginal bleeding refers to any bleeding that occurs outside of a woman's normal menstrual period, such as bleeding between periods, after intercourse, or after menopause.

The signs of menopause include hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, and irregular periods.

Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) is an infection of the reproductive organs that can cause pelvic pain, fever, and abnormal vaginal discharge. It is often caused by a sexually transmitted infection and can lead to infertility if left untreated.

Ovulation is the release of a mature egg from the ovary. It typically occurs each month in a woman’s menstrual cycle. During ovulation, the egg is released and travels down the fallopian tube, where it can be fertilized by sperm and result in pregnancy. Signs of ovulation can include a change in cervical mucus, light spotting, breast tenderness, and an increase in basal body temperature.

Ovulation is controlled by the hormonal changes in the body, specifically the release of luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) from the pituitary gland. These hormones trigger the growth and maturity of the egg, and the LH surge triggers ovulation. Ovulation can be predicted by tracking basal body temperature, monitoring cervical mucus, and using ovulation predictor kits.