Gynecology Scope: Conditions, Diseases, Treatments, and Procedures
Gynecology is a branch of medicine that focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of conditions related to a woman’s reproductive structures, such as the uterus, ovaries, fallopian tubes, and vagina. Common diagnoses include endometriosis, ovarian cysts, pelvic inflammatory disease, and urinary tract infections. Gynecologists also identify precancerous cells using Pap smears and provide screening and treatment for cervical cancer. Additionally, they provide counseling on topics such as contraception, fertility treatments, family planning, pregnancy care, childbirth education, and postpartum care.
Gynecologists perform a variety of procedures to diagnose and treat diseases and conditions. These include: biopsies of organs or tissues; endometrial ablation to remove tissue from the uterus; laparoscopy to examine internal organs; hysteroscopy to examine the inside of the uterus; colposcopy to examine the cervix; hysterosalpingography to examine the fallopian tubes; pelvic ultrasounds to examine organs or tissues; hysterostomy to repair or remove parts of the uterus; dilation and curettage to remove tissue from the uterus; hysterectomy to remove the uterus; and tubal ligation to prevent pregnancy.
Gynecologists provide comprehensive care and advice on topics such as contraception and fertility treatments, and help women make informed decisions about their reproductive health.
Qualifications, Training, and Certifications
To become a gynecologist, a physician must complete a four-year residency in obstetrics and gynecology.
During the four-year residency, individuals will receive training in all aspects of gynecology, including diagnosis and management of reproductive conditions, gynecologic surgery, obstetrical care, and family planning services. Residents will also gain experience in research and teaching. Once the residency is completed, a physician must pass the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology (ABOG) certification exam in order to become board certified.
In addition to residency, specialized fellowships in areas are available in reproductive endocrinology, maternal-fetal medicine, female pelvic medicine and reconstructive surgery (urogynecology), and gynecologic oncology.
Once the residency is completed, a physician must pass the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology (ABOG) certification exam in order to become board certified.
Related Medical Specialties to Gynecology
Obstetrics is a branch of medicine that specializes in childbirth and women’s care during pregnancy. Obstetricians provide prenatal care, labor and delivery services, and postpartum care. They also manage pregnancies, diagnose birth defects, and perform ultrasounds to monitor the baby’s growth and development.
Urogynecology is a subspecialty of gynecology that focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of urinary incontinence, pelvic floor disorders, and other conditions of the female pelvic organs. Urogynecologists use a variety of specialized procedures to treat these conditions, such as transvaginal or abdominal surgery.
Reproductive endocrinology is a medical subspecialty focused on the hormones involved in human reproduction. Reproductive endocrinologists diagnose and treat infertility, hormonal imbalances, menstrual disorders, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and other conditions related to the reproductive system.
Maternal-fetal medicine is a subspecialty of obstetrics that focuses on high-risk pregnancies. Maternal-fetal medicine specialists are trained in fetal diagnosis and treatment, prenatal genetic testing, and management of preterm labor. They also provide counseling on family planning options such as prenatal screening tests and cesarean delivery.