Understanding OB-GYNs:
When and Why You Should Visit One

Understanding OB GYNs Obstetrician gynecologists (OB-GYN) specialize in all areas of women’s health, from general female reproductive health issues to specific pregnancy-related matters.

But what exactly do they do, and what are the signs that you should visit one?

What is an OB-GYN?

OB-GYNs are physicians who have been trained to perform both gynecology-related tasks and obstetric tasks, which involve the delivery of babies and the treatment of pregnant women.

These doctors are trained to assist with various women’s health concerns.

What Kind of Schooling Does an OB-GYN Have?

What Kind of Schooling Does an OB GYN Have As physicians, they attend medical school, complete a medical residency, and obtain a license.

OB-GYNs have to undergo an incredible amount of schooling and accreditation, which means they have the highest amount of authority to provide solutions to women’s reproductive health challenges.

What’s the Difference Between an OB-GYN and a Gynecologist?

Gynecologists work on the full spectrum of female reproductive health, whereas obstetricians specialize in childbirth and pregnancy care. OB-GYNs can do both.

The best time to visit an OB-GYN is when:

You are due for an annual wellness exam.
You have concerns about the female reproductive system, be it the uterus, ovaries, vulva, or cervix. Issues surrounding urological or gastrointestinal symptoms are good to bring up to an OB-GYN.
You have sexual health concerns, including pain, abuse, or libido imbalances.

At What Age Should a Girl See an OB-GYN?

According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), teens should start seeing an OB-GYN around age 13 to 15.

Even if nothing is out of the ordinary, you can schedule a first visit around this age as a safety precaution.

Here are some of the signs that a girl should visit a women’s health physician:

Delayed menarche or delayed puberty
Difficulty wearing a tampon or questions about genital anatomy
Any questions about sexual health or contraceptive needs

What Can an OB-GYN Diagnose?

What Can an OB GYN Diagnose These professionals diagnose any and all diseases related to the female reproductive system, including, but not limited to:

HPV infection
Bacterial vaginosis
Urinary incontinence
Adnexal tumors
Congenital abnormalities
Endometriosis
Ovarian cysts
Abnormal uterine bleeding

What Services Do OB-GYNs Provide?

An ob-gyn can provide care for nearly any issue pertaining to female reproduction.

This can include family planning, menopausal concerns or hormonal changes, menstrual irregularities, and pregnancy-related issues.

Primarily, these physicians perform pregnancy tests, gynecological surgical surgeries, STD tests, and birth control counseling and care.

The breadth of services offered by OB-GYNs is wide:

Pap smears
Vulvar biopsy
Cancer screenings
Pelvic exams
Treatment for vaginal infections
Any reproductive system disorders: endometriosis, infertility, ovarian cysts, or pelvic pain

What Can You Expect During Your Visit With an OB-GYN?

Understanding OB GYNs Whether it’s your first time visiting an ob-gyn or not, at Northland Women’s Health Care, you can expect an honest, respectful, and helpful discussion. We’ll listen, share recommendations, and discuss potential solutions to your needs.

OB-GYN visits look broadly into your overall physical health and well-being. You should expect to get asked questions concerning your lifestyle choices and habits, which include:

Exercise habits
Dietary habits
Alcohol and drug consumption
The status of your home life
What you do for work
Whether you have children

You’ll certainly get asked about any health-specific issues you might be facing. Our physicians may ask you to provide a urine sample or take a blood test to get a more holistic view of your health profile.

We’ll talk about menopause and healthy aging, contraceptives, and birth control and how it can affect your hormonal balance.

The physician may recommend a physical examination, although this isn’t always the case. A physical can include a breast cancer screening, pelvic exam, or cervical cancer screening. Talking with your ob-gyn will let you know which screenings are right for you.

Vaccination status and vaccine options will be discussed. Our physicians can recommend which vaccinations are preferable while pregnant and which are not.

An OB-GYN can recommend specific health tests and screenings to advance your personal health and well-being.

Why OB-GYNs Matter for Women’s Health

Why OB GYNs Matter for Womens Health OB-GYNs play a pivotal role in women's health, addressing a wide range of medical needs from adolescence through menopause.

Scheduling regular checkups and appointments with your OB-GYN is an important part of maintaining good health throughout your life.

You don’t have to be pregnant to visit. These doctors specialize in all aspects of women’s reproductive health. This means that their expertise is valued for a broad spectrum of issues you might encounter.

Get Scheduled to Visit an OB-GYN at Northland Women’s Health

Northland Women’s Health Care

Our obstetrics and gynecology specialists are here to alleviate your concerns, assist in your education and health, and ensure you get the best possible service. If you’re in the greater Kansas City metro or surrounding cities, schedule an appointment today.