Learn About Gynecologists: Conditions They Treat and When to see one?
What is a Gynecologist?
A gynecologist is a medical professional who has the education and training necessary to diagnose and treat illnesses and diseases that affect the female reproductive organs. Most modern gynecologists are also obstetricians. They can help with sexual dysfunction, infertility, STDs, and common infections and diseases.
How does a doctor become a Gynecologist?
To become a gynecologist, a person must first complete an accredited undergraduate program. Then, they must attend medical school for another four years. After medical school, the doctor must study gynecology as a specialty for another two to three years and also complete a residency program, where they will practice gynecology with the assistance of an experienced gynecologist.
What types of illnesses do Gynecologists treat?
Gynecologists treat a variety of illnesses and diseases that affect the female reproductive system. These can range from serious problems to everyday infections. Some of the most common illnesses treated by gynecologists include:
- Abnormal bleeding
- Bladder prolapse
- Cancer
- Ectopic pregnancies
- Endometriosis
- Fibroids
- Genital warts
- Hormone disorders
- Incontinence
- Infertility
- Ovarian cysts
- Ovarian hypofunction
- Ovarian polyps
- Ovarian tumors
- Pelvic pain
- Pelvic inflammatory disease
- Sexually transmitted diseases
- Toxic shock syndrome
- Urinary tract infection
- Uterine prolapse
- Vaginitis
What diagnostic tests and procedures do Gynecologists perform?
Before a gynecologist can treat a disease or illness, they must first diagnose the illness to know the causes and severity of it. Gynecologists may perform these tests themselves or order them from other departments or professionals. Some of the most common diagnostic tests include:
- Cervical biopsy
- Colposcopy
- Endocervical curettage
- Hysterosalpingography
- Mammogram
- Magnetic resonance imaging
- Pelvic ultrasound
- Toluidine blue dye test
- Fluid-contrast ultrasound
- Vaginal culture
- Pap smear
What are the different types of Gynecologists?
There are four different types of gynecologists, and each one of them specializes in a different area. These different types of gynecologists may have had more education in their specialty, and doctors may even specialize in more than one area. The four different types include:
- Obstetrician: Obstetricians specialize in treating pregnant women. They also help prevent unwanted pregnancies and STDs.
- Urogynecologist: Urogynecologists treat women with women with pelvic floor disorder and women with urinary issues.
- Gynecologic Oncologist: Gynecologist oncologists treat reproductive-organ cancers.
- Reproductive Endocrinologist: Reproductive endocrinologists treat reproductive disorders and infertility.
How do Gynecologists treat illnesses and diseases?
Gynecologists treat many different types of disease, and the treatments they use can vary by disease and patient. Certain illnesses and diseases can be treated with one method, and others require a combination of different treatments. Some of the most common include:
- Hysterectomy
- Endometrial ablation
- Cervical cryosurgery
- Tubal ligation
- Pelvic floor repair
- Fertility treatment
- STD treatment
- Antibiotics
- Birth control
- Laser surgery
- Cyst removal
- Radiation
- Chemotherapy
When to see a Gynecologist?
Women who are menstruating should see a gynecologist annually for a pelvic exam to check for STDs, endometriosis, pregnancy, and other abnormalities. If you are experiencing any of the following symptoms, you should also a gynecologist:
- Severe cramping
- Abnormal bleeding
- Abdominal pain
- Pelvic pain
- Pain during sex
- Missed period
- Strange discharge
- Incontinence
- Reoccurring urinary tract infections
- Exposure to STDs
Resources:
ACOG: The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists
