An obstetrician focuses on the health and wellbeing of a woman and her unborn child during the nine months of pregnancy.
An obstetrician -- known as an OB/GYN if she also practices gynecology -- specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases and health issues of females. An obstetrician's primary duty is to care for the wellness of a mother-to-be and her unborn child, and to detect any complications that may occur during all three trimesters of the pregnancy, the childbirth and post-pregnancy. Obstetricians may be employed in a hospital, but commonly have their own practices or clinics.
Obstetrics
An obstetrician is responsible for the overall health of a pregnant female and her unborn child. Obstetricians conduct routine visits and check vital signs, perform ultrasounds, develop a birthing plan and educate mothers about the stages of pregnancies. An obstetrician is also responsible for reviewing baby developmental charts, providing healthy lifestyle suggestions, and quickly diagnosing signs and symptoms of fetal abnormalities or potential risks to the mother. During delivery, obstetricians monitor the health of the mother and ensure that delivery is without complications.
Gynecology
An obstetrician who also performs gynecological duties offers advice to females concerning reproductive methods, performs pap smears and mammograms, and gives information on prevent and live with sexually transmitted diseases. Outside the realm of general gynecology, obstetricians may opt to specialize in one of numerous other health-related fields such as: pubescent gynecology, infertility, urinary tract disorders, sexually-transmitted diseases, gynecologic oncology, maternal-fetal medicine, or reproductive endocrinology.
Other Specialties
While an obstetrician's primary concentration is pregnancy, this type of doctor can also care for women who may have been diagnosed with breast or cervical cancer, as well as for females who may have hormone disorders or difficulties during menopause.
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