What is gynaecology?

What is gynaecology? What do gynaecologists do? These are questions that commonly come to our minds when we think of female health. It is a branch of medicine that deals with the diseases and routine physical care of the reproductive system of women. A gynaecologist is a doctor who specializes in female reproductive health. They diagnose and treat issues related to the female reproductive tract. This includes the uterus, fallopian tubes, ovaries and breasts. 

Gynaecologists give reproductive and sexual health services that include pelvic exams, pap tests, cancer screenings, and testing and

treatment for vaginal infections

. They diagnose and treat reproductive system disorders such as endometriosis, infertility, ovarian cysts, and pelvic pain. They may also care for people with ovarian, cervical, and other reproductive cancers. Some gynaecologists also practice as obstetricians, who give care during pregnancy and birth. If a gynaecologist has expertise in obstetrics, they’re called an OB-GYN.

Gynaecologists are physicians who have completed specialized training in the female reproductive system. Like any medical doctor, a gynaecologist must complete medical school followed by a residency. After becoming board-certified, a gynaecologist may have advanced subspecialty training. Areas of training include breast care, family planning, minimally invasive surgery, pediatric and adolescent, gynaecology, pelvic medicine and reconstructive surgery.

It’s important to have regular visits with your gynaecologist to maintain your reproductive health. Depending on your health history and how old you are, your gynaecologist may use this visit to screen for problems like cervical or breast cancer. A good visit is also your chance to ask the gynaecologist about reproductive health concerns like birth control.

If you have discomfort in your pelvic region, pain in the lower belly, also known as the pelvic region, it may be a sign of a problem with the reproductive organs. Common causes of pelvic pain include menstrual cramps, ovarian cysts, endometriosis, and ectopic pregnancy.

You can make an appointment with a gynaecologist if you have changes in your monthly period, including unusual pain or bleeding. If you are in your 40s or 50s, your gynaecologist can help you to figure out if you might be going through menopause. Gynaecologists can also help you with questions about pregnancy, including how to avoid getting pregnant and what to do if you think you might be pregnant.

If you’re having an unusual discharge or odour, a gynaecologist can diagnose the cause and offer treatment. Your gynaecologists will examine your reproductive system, both internally and externally. They’ll examine your breasts and check for any lumps or cysts. Your doctor may also press on your abdomen and pelvis. If your gynaecologist diagnoses you with a medical condition, they may give you treatment or refer you to a specialist. Depending on the problem, your treatments may involve medication, surgery, or a wait-and-see approach.