Gynaecology
Obstetrics and Gynaecology
Obstetrics and Gynaecology is the medical specialty that encompasses the two subspecialties of obstetrics (covering pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period) and gynecology (covering the health of the female reproductive system – vagina, uterus, ovaries, and breasts). It is commonly abbreviated as OB-GYN or OB/GYN.
Obstetrics and Gynaecology are medical specialities that focus on two different aspects of the female reproductive system.
Obstetrics deals with the care of pregnant women, the unborn baby, labour and delivery and the immediate period following childbirth. The obstetrician ensures that mother and child get the best prenatal care to ensure labour and delivery is accomplished without complications and should intervention be required, it is done quickly and safely.
Gynaecology deals with any ailment concerning the reproductive organs like the uterus, fallopian tubes, cervix, ovaries and vagina. A gynaecologist may also treat related problems in the bowel, bladder and urinary system since these are closely related to female reproductive organs.
Every woman suffers from gynaecological disorders at some point in life and this should not be taken lightly. It is of utmost importance to understand the symptoms and seek immediate treatment from the gynaecologist.
Common Gynaecological disorders include
- Painful Menstruation
- Excess Vaginal Discharge
- Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
- Irregular Periods
- Fibroids
- Pelvic Inflammatory Disease
- Vaginal Bleeding
- Vaginitis
- Menopause
- Painful Intercourse
- Endometriosis
Symptoms of Gynecological Problems
Symptoms may result from mild infections that are easy to treat. However, if they are not treated properly, they can result in serious conditions, including kidney damage. Vaginal symptoms may also be a sign of serious problems, such as cancers of the reproductive tract. Some symptoms and signs include:
- Bleeding between periods
- Frequent and urgent need to urinate or a burning sensation during urination
- Abnormal vaginal bleeding
- Bleeding after menopause
- Pain in the pelvis unlike menstrual cramps
- Itching, burning, swelling, redness, or soreness in the vaginal area
- Sores or lumps in the genital area
- Vaginal discharge with an unpleasant or unusual odour, or of an unusual colour
- Increased vaginal discharge