Obstetrics and gynecology are two distinct yet closely related medical specialties that focus on the reproductive health of women. However, many people still confuse these two terms and use them interchangeably. If you’re living in Turkey and are in need of women’s health services, it’s important to know the difference between a gynecologist and an obstetrician. While both of these healthcare professionals deal with women’s reproductive health, there are some significant differences between them. 

In this blog, we’ll explore the roles of a gynecologist and an obstetrician in Turkey and clarify the differences between the two medical specialties.

What is the difference between OB/GYN and gynecology?

The terms OB/GYN and gynecology are often used interchangeably, leading to confusion about the difference between them. Gynecology is a medical specialty that focuses on women’s reproductive health, including the diagnosis and treatment of conditions affecting the female reproductive system.

Although both disciplines have a mandate to care for women, they intervene at different times to address different problems. 

Obstetrics, on the other hand, is concerned with the pregnant woman, i.e. monitoring the progress of the pregnancy until delivery. The obstetrician is therefore responsible for the mother and the unborn child. To succeed in this mission she must master the difference of gynecology and a number of complex techniques. These are the medicine and surgery of the woman, the ultrasound for the prenatal diagnosis of certain affections of the fetus.

Generally assisted by the midwife who manages “normal” pregnancies, the obstetrician doctor ensures the follow-up of pathological pregnancies. For example, the obstetrician performs assisted deliveries, i.e., those requiring the use of obstetrical instruments, as well as cesarean sections and episiotomies.

What are the main diseases/conditions treated by the obstetrician-gynecologist?

• Gynecological cancers
• Contraception
• Refractory abdominal and vulvar pain
• Endometriosis
• High-risk pregnancies
• Menopause
• Abnormal bleeding
• Genitourinary syndrome
• Fertility disorders

What does a gynecologist do?

A gynecologist is a women’s health specialist who focuses on the reproductive health of women. They diagnose and treat conditions related to the female reproductive system, including the uterus, ovaries, fallopian tubes, and vagina. In addition to providing medical care, gynecologists also provide guidance on reproductive health and family planning.

Gynecology practitioners are concerned with women of all ages and with diseases affecting the female reproductive system (vulva, vagina, uterus, fallopian tubes and ovary). The management concerns :

• Menstruation
• Menopause
• Sexually transmitted diseases
• Organ health (breast, uterus)
• Prescription of contraceptive methods.

One of the most important services that gynecologists provide is the gynecological examination. During this exam, the doctor will check for any abnormalities in the reproductive system, including the ovaries, uterus, and cervix. They may also perform a Pap smear, which is a screening test for cervical cancer. Other common tests that a gynecologist may perform include testing for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and performing a breast exam.

Specialists also provide care for a variety of reproductive health issues. They can help manage menstrual problems, such as heavy bleeding or irregular periods. They can also diagnose and treat conditions such as endometriosis, uterine fibroids, and ovarian cysts. In addition, specialists can provide counseling on contraception options and help women plan for pregnancy.

During pregnancy, a gynecologist may work with an obstetrician to provide prenatal care. They will monitor the health of the mother and fetus throughout the pregnancy, perform ultrasounds, and ensure that the pregnancy is progressing normally. They may also be involved in the delivery of the baby, either by assisting with a vaginal birth or performing a C-section if necessary.

At Turkishdoc, we are with couples who want to have a baby with the most common treatment methods applied in IVF treatment. Fill out the Turkishdoc contact form to benefit from the diagnosis and treatment services in the best way possible!