An obstetrician / gynecologist is a physician specialist who provides medical and surgical care to women and has a particular expertise in pregnancy, childbirth and disorders of the reproductive system. This includes preventive care, detection of a sexually transmitted disease, Pap test screening, family planning, etc.
Importance of an OB/GYN
OB/GYNs are extremely important to all women, pregnant or not. OB/GYNs are also extremely familiar with most conditions and disorders that may arise during pregnancy. Some of them sub-specialize in maternal-fetal medicine, reproductive endocrinology, infertility, urogynecology, pediatric gynecology, or GYN Oncology.
When Choosing your OB/GYN
If have not yet chosen an OB/GYN and believe you are pregnant, you need to make sure that the one you choose is able to meet all your needs. Factors you might consider include:
- Your Insurance
- The OB/GYN's availability
- Which hospitals the doctors have admitting privileges to
- The OB/GYN's personality
- The location of the office itself
- The nurses and other staff