Obstetrics and gynecology are related fields of medicine. Both deal with women, both deal with the reproductive system but both do not deal with exactly the same medical issues that a woman may face.
Pregnancy
Frequently your gynecologist will be the one to run the test confirming pregnancy. At that point, you are referred to an obstetrician who takes care of pre-natal care, any issues that arise, testing and delivery.
Family Planning
If you want to practice birth control or if you want to get off birth control, a gynecologist is the doctor to go to. A gynecologist can also assist you with fertility problems, but will refer you to a fertility specialist if there is one available. A gynecologist also handles tubal ligations and hysterectomies.
Testing
A gynecologist handles testing for any disease of the reproductive system, including cancer, sexually transmitted diseases and menstruation issues.
Urinary Tract
If you have a urinary tract infection, incontinence or vaginal problems, you would go to a gynecologist.
After pregnancy
An obstetrician handles all phases of a pregnancy, including the period immediately following the delivery. This is the basic difference between the two specialties. Obstetricians deliver babies, gynecologists treat disease.
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