OB-GYN Frequently Asked Questions
Medically reviewed byCarolyn Kay, MD– Written byMegan Lentz
What is an OB-GYN?
Finding anobstetrician-gynecologist (OB-GYN)will help you manage your women’s healthcare needs. An OB-GYN is trained to deliver babies and specializes in treating and managing disorders involving a woman's reproductive organs.
OB-GYNs are licensed to perform routine women's reproductive checks such as:Pap tests (aka Pap smears),sexually transmitted infection (STI) checks,pelvic exams,ultrasounds; procedures such asIUD insertions; and surgeries such as ahysterectomyor removal ofovarian cysts.
It's recommended that women see an OB-GYN once a year for routine checkups. If you're pregnant or have an underlying health condition, you may need to see an OB-GYN more frequently.
OB-GYNs can perform or order the following procedures and surgeries:
- preventative screenings, includingpelvic exams,Pap tests, and breast exams
- mammography
- cervicalandendometrial biopsies
- hysterectomy, or the removal of the uterus
- myomectomy, or the removal ofuterine fibroids
- tubal ligation, or female sterilization
- intrauterine device (IUD)insertion or removal
- vaginal delivery
- cesarean delivery(C-section)
- ultrasounds
- amniocentesis
- in vitro fertilization
- dilation and curettage (D&C)
OB-GYNs treat the following conditions:
- pelvic pain
- pelvic floor disorders
- genital itching
- dysfunction uterine bleedingormenstrual disorders
- urinary tractandvaginal infections
- endometriosis
- adenomyosis
- hormonal disorders
- urinary incontinence
- breast disorders
- infertility
An OB-GYN can also provide prenatal care and help you manage your health during pregnancy.