A gynecologist is a medical professional who has the education and training necessary to diagnose and treat illnesses and diseases that affect the female reproductive organs. Most modern gynecologists are also obstetricians. They can help with sexual dysfunction, infertility, STDs, and common infections and diseases.
To become a gynecologist, a person must first complete an accredited undergraduate program. Then, they must attend medical school for another four years. After medical school, the doctor must study gynecology as a specialty for another two to three years and also complete a residency program, where they will practice gynecology with the assistance of an experienced gynecologist.
Gynecologists treat a variety of illnesses and diseases that affect the female reproductive system. These can range from serious problems to everyday infections. Some of the most common illnesses treated by gynecologists include:
Before a gynecologist can treat a disease or illness, they must first diagnose the illness to know the causes and severity of it. Gynecologists may perform these tests themselves or order them from other departments or professionals. Some of the most common diagnostic tests include:
There are four different types of gynecologists, and each one of them specializes in a different area. These different types of gynecologists may have had more education in their specialty, and doctors may even specialize in more than one area. The four different types include:
Gynecologists treat many different types of disease, and the treatments they use can vary by disease and patient. Certain illnesses and diseases can be treated with one method, and others require a combination of different treatments. Some of the most common include:
Women who are menstruating should see a gynecologist annually for a pelvic exam to check for STDs, endometriosis, pregnancy, and other abnormalities. If you are experiencing any of the following symptoms, you should also a gynecologist:
ACOG: The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists