The OBGYN: An Overview

An OBGYN is a combination of two medical specialties that almost always go hand in hand. The label signifies that the doctor is both an obstetrician and a gynecologist and can serve both functions in his practice. In terms of the layman’s experience, this doctor is typically who a woman will see when she learns she is pregnant or suspects that she might be. In many cases, the doctor will then continue to see the patient throughout her pregnancy and may even be the one to deliver the baby when the time is due.

In order to understand the OBGYN, it is important to break down the name and realize what each portion means. An obstetrician is a doctor who is concerned with everything to do with pregnancy. He is trained and educated in the steps to take to ensure a healthy baby and a healthy mother throughout the term. A gynecologist is a trained expert in the female reproductive system and is often called upon for appointments having nothing to do with pregnancy. Many women see a gynecologist on a regular basis simply for checkup purposes.

An OBGYN must complete a regular education path to become a medical doctor in the United States. Following their education they must complete a residency program which usually lasts approximately four additional years. The requirements for a practicing OBGYN in the United States are determined by the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology.

An Obstetrician may choose to go into one of the subspecialty fields. These include gynecological oncology, urogynecology, reproductive endocrinology, and maternal medicine. Further education to specialize in one of these fields may or may not be required. In order to get certified, however, the doctor must take a separate exam for the specialty in question.

If you are pregnant or are thinking of becoming pregnant, you should schedule an appointment with a certified Obstetrician in your area as soon as possible. They will be able to answer any questions you might have and can take you through the pregnancy process. For first timers, pregnancy can be an exciting, though frightening, occasion. Having a doctor on hand (and on call) that you can trust makes all the difference. If you aren’t sure how to find the right doctor, you might start by perusing some online reviews and see what others are saying about the doctors in your locale. You can then use this information to narrow down your choices.