Difference between Obstetrics and Gynaecology

Obstetrics is a specialisation that deals with pregnancy, from prenatal to post-natal care. It includes interventions to safeguard the health of the mother and the foetus during pregnancy. 

Obstetricians are doctors who are specially trained to manage and care for women during this time, including managing normal and high-risk pregnancies and the delivery of babies.

Obstetricians also provide counselling and support to expectant mothers and their families during this time and ensure the well-being of both mother and baby. They can also help if you are suffering from postpartum depression

Obstetrics also covers the management of complications that may arise before or during pregnancy, such as. 

1. Infertility
2. Preeclampsia
3. Uterine rupture
4. Placental abruption
5. Prolapsed cord
6. Haemorrhage
7. Sepsis
8. Miscarriage
9. Stillbirth
10. Ectopic pregnancy
11. Foetal distress
12. NICU care
13. General post-natal care

Gynaecology focuses on a woman’s reproductive health, from puberty to menopause and beyond. Gynaecology also encompasses the diagnosis and treatment of a wide range of conditions, including

1. Irregular menstruation
2. Amenorrhea (absence of menstruation)
3. Dysmenorrhea (painful menstruation)
4. Incontinence
5. Vaginal infections due to microorganisms such as fungi and bacteria
6. Cancer of the reproductive system
7. Conditions that cause pain during sex
8. Prolapse of pelvic organs
9. Cervical and vaginal polyps
10. Endometriosis
11. Ovarian cysts
12. Uterine fibroids
13. Urinary tract problems
14. STI treatment

Gynaecologists are trained in performing diagnostic tests and procedures, such as pelvic exams, biopsies, and colposcopy. They may perform surgeries, including hysterectomies and other procedures, to treat conditions affecting the reproductive system. 

Aside from medical conditions, gynaecologists advise on sexual matters, such as contraceptives, protection against sexually transmitted diseases, and responsible sexual practices. In short, a gynaecologist takes care of any non-pregnancy-related issue related to female reproductive health.

While obstetrics and gynaecology overlap and work closely to optimise the health and well-being of women, they have distinct roles in the medical field. The former deals with caring for women and their babies during pregnancy, and the latter is a speciality for treating women’s reproductive systems.

The following table compares obstetrics vs gynaecology based on their meaning, specialisation, training, and more.

Both obstetricians and gynaecologists are trained together. This is why most gynaecologists are also obstetricians who can handle pregnancy cases effectively. At post graduation level, obstetrics and gynaecology are grouped under one speciality called OB/GYN.  

After graduating from medical school, OB/GYNs can complete a four- or five-year residency-training program focusing on obstetrics or gynaecology specifically. While obstetrics specifically deals with all aspects of pregnancy (from prenatal to after-delivery), gynaecology deals with the care of the reproductive system.

Women who are not pregnant should visit a gynaecologist for their reproductive health needs. You can begin visiting a gynaecologist regularly during your teen years and continue throughout the rest of your life. The reasons to visit a gynaecologist may include the following:

1. Getting pap smears for cervical cancer screening
2. Deciding the right birth control based on your health history and lifestyle
3. Getting a diagnosis and treatment for sexually transmitted diseases

The visit to both an obstetrician and a gynaecologist may start with a primary health check, such as blood pressure, temperature, and weight. The doctors may also conduct blood and urine tests. 

1. During a regular checkup, the gynaecologist will evaluate your health history and perform a breast and pelvic exam. Based on your symptoms and conditions, the gynaecologist may perform a pap smear by collecting a sample of your cervical tissue. 
2. During pregnancy, an obstetrician will listen to the baby’s heartbeat and feel the belly to check for the baby’s position and size. The obstetrician may perform other tests depending on your health history and condition.

While both obstetrics and gynaecology focus on the health needs of women, they are different specialities dealing with different aspects of the female reproductive system.

Obstetrics is the branch of medicine that offers care during pregnancy whereas gynaecology is the field that manages conditions concerning the reproductive organs.  

The difference between obstetrics and gynaecology can get confusing for someone who does not require an obstetrician or a gynaecologist in their everyday life. However, it is important to understand these differences to decide which doctor is best for your specific needs.