Understanding the difference between obstetrics and gynecology helps patients make informed decisions about reproductive health. Many people use OB/GYN as a single term, but each area has distinct responsibilities in women’s healthcare. This guide explains the roles of obstetricians and gynecologists, their training, and when to seek care from each type of specialist
What Obstetrics Covers
Obstetrics focuses on pregnancy, childbirth, and care immediately after delivery. Specialists in this field monitor fetal development, screen for potential complications, support labor and delivery, and care for both parent and infant after birth
Key aspects of obstetric care include early pregnancy assessment and prenatal visits, monitoring for conditions that may affect pregnancy, managing labor and delivery, and providing postpartum support for physical and emotional recovery. Obstetricians work closely with neonatal teams in high-risk situations or complex pregnancies
What Gynecology Covers
Gynecology focuses on reproductive health and conditions affecting the female reproductive system outside of pregnancy. Gynecologists diagnose and treat conditions involving the uterus, ovaries, fallopian tubes, cervix, vagina, and breasts
Examples of gynecologic care include routine pelvic exams and Pap tests, addressing menstrual irregularities, managing hormonal disorders, screening for reproductive cancers, and performing surgeries for conditions like fibroids or endometriosis. Patients typically visit gynecologists regularly from adolescence through adulthood and into menopause
How the Fields Are Related
Although obstetrics and gynecology have different objectives, they overlap in reproductive health care. Many doctors train in both disciplines and are known as OB/GYNs. Patients benefit from seeing a single doctor for routine care, pregnancy, and delivery. This integrated approach ensures continuity of care throughout reproductive life
Training and Certification Differences
Obstetricians and gynecologists complete similar foundational education including undergraduate studies, medical school, and residency training in obstetrics and gynecology. Some doctors pursue specialized fellowship training in areas such as maternal-fetal medicine, reproductive endocrinology, or gynecologic oncology
Certification typically comes from recognized medical boards. Residency programs provide comprehensive training in both obstetrics and gynecology, but some specialists focus primarily on one area
Scope of Practice
Obstetricians manage pregnancy and childbirth. Their responsibilities include prenatal testing, labor and delivery support, cesarean or other birth-related procedures, and postpartum care. They handle high-risk pregnancies and collaborate with other specialists as needed
Gynecologists focus on non-pregnancy reproductive health. They perform preventive care, diagnose and treat conditions such as polycystic ovarian syndrome and endometriosis, conduct cancer screenings, provide hormonal evaluation and treatment, and carry out surgeries on reproductive organs
Conditions Treated by Each
Obstetricians address pregnancy-related issues including maternal health risks, fetal growth, and labor progression. Gynecologists manage reproductive health conditions across a lifetime including irregular periods, pelvic pain, infections, hormonal disorders, and reproductive cancers. Some OB/GYNs provide comprehensive care in both areas while others specialize in one
When to See an Obstetrician or a Gynecologist
Pregnancy or childbirth concerns require an obstetrician. Routine reproductive health checkups are best with a gynecologist. Irregular bleeding, pelvic pain, or fertility questions can be addressed by a gynecologist. Preconception planning may involve either depending on available services. Many patients choose a combined OB/GYN for continuity and convenience
OB/GYN as a Combined Specialty
Doctors trained in both obstetrics and gynecology provide complete reproductive care. This approach allows patients to receive routine screenings, pregnancy monitoring, labor and delivery support, and postpartum care from the same trusted provider. Integrated care helps patients navigate reproductive health from adolescence through adulthood
Frequently Asked Questions
Is obstetrics only about pregnancy
Obstetrics includes care before conception and after delivery, but its main focus remains on pregnancy and childbirth
Can a gynecologist deliver babies
Some gynecologists trained in obstetrics do deliver babies. Those practicing as OB/GYNs provide care for both pregnancy and general reproductive health
When should someone see a gynecologist for the first time
Medical guidance suggests the first visit around the start of puberty or when reproductive health concerns arise
Summary
Obstetrics specializes in pregnancy and childbirth care. Gynecology addresses reproductive health outside of pregnancy. Training in both fields allows many doctors to provide comprehensive care throughout reproductive life. Choosing the right specialist depends on individual health needs and life stage. Combined OB/GYN care offers a seamless approach to reproductive wellness from routine screenings to childbirth support
