What's the Difference Between a Gynaecologist and an Obstetrician?

The terms “gynaecologist” and “obstetrician” are often used together. While the two specialties are closely related, they focus on different aspects of women’s health. Understanding what each specialist does can help you make more informed decisions when seeking care.

In this article, we explain the difference between gynaecologists and obstetricians, the types of conditions they treat, and when it may be appropriate to consult each one.

What Is the Role of a Gynaecologist?

A gynaecologist is a medical doctor specialising in the health of the female reproductive system, including the uterus, ovaries, fallopian tubes, cervix and vagina. They may also perform breast health assessments during routine check-ups.

Their responsibilities include:

• Preventive Care

  
  This involves routine pelvic exams, Pap smears, breast exams, and various cancer screenings.

• Diagnosis and Treatment

  
  Gynaecologists manage a wide range of conditions, such as menstrual disorders, infertility, endometriosis, ovarian cysts, fibroids, and reproductive cancers, among others.

• Sexual and Reproductive Health

  
  They provide essential advice on contraception, family planning, and overall sexual health.

• Surgical Procedures

  
  Their expertise extends to performing minimally invasive surgeries like laparoscopy and hysterectomy, as well as other procedures for reproductive organ issues.

What Conditions Can a Gynaecologist Treat?

Gynaecologists manage a variety of conditions affecting the female reproductive system. Some of the most common include:

• Menstrual Disorders

  
  Conditions leading to heavy, irregular, or painful periods, often requiring medical or surgical intervention.

• Endometriosis

  
  A condition characterised by the growth of tissue similar to the uterine lining outside the uterus, frequently causing chronic pain and fertility challenges.

• Fibroids

  
  Non-cancerous growths within the uterus that can lead to significant symptoms such as heavy bleeding or pelvic pain.

• Ovarian Cysts

  
  Fluid-filled sacs that develop on the ovaries, which may require monitoring or surgical removal depending on their size and symptoms.

• Menopause-Related Issues

  
  Symptoms like hot flashes, vaginal dryness, and mood swings, with management strategies provided by gynaecologists.

• Urinary Incontinence

  
  Involuntary loss of bladder control, managed through various approaches including lifestyle changes, therapy, or surgery.

• Pelvic Organ Prolapse

  
  When pelvic organs descend from their normal position, leading to discomfort and functional issues.

• Reproductive Cancers

  
  Includes early detection and treatment of cancers affecting the cervix, uterus, ovaries, and more.

Gynaecologists also perform important procedures such as Pap smears, pelvic ultrasounds, hysterectomies, and laparoscopic surgeries.

What Is the Role of an Obstetrician?

An obstetrician is a medical doctor specialising in the care of women during pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period. Their primary role is to ensure the health and safety of both the mother and the baby throughout the entire pregnancy journey.

Key responsibilities

• Prenatal Care

  
  Regular check-ups, physical exams, ultrasounds, and screenings to monitor foetal development and maternal health.

• Diagnosis and Management

  
  Treatment of pregnancy-related complications such as gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, and infections.

• Labour and Delivery

  
  Management of childbirth, including vaginal births, Caesarean sections, and emergency interventions.

• Postpartum Care

  
  Support during recovery and addressing physical or emotional postnatal concerns.

Common Obstetric Procedures

• Caesarean Section (C-section)

  
  Surgical delivery method used when vaginal birth is not feasible or safe.

• Amniocentesis

  
  A prenatal test that samples amniotic fluid to check for genetic conditions.

• Cervical Cerclage

  
  A stitch placed in the cervix to help prevent preterm birth in at-risk pregnancies.

• Dilation and Curettage (D&C)

  
  A procedure to remove tissue from the uterus after miscarriage or for diagnosis.

Key Complications Obstetricians Are Trained to Handle

Obstetricians are equipped to handle a range of complications that may arise during pregnancy and delivery:

• Haemorrhage (Excessive Bleeding)

  
  Often due to uterine atony or delivery-related trauma.

• Eclampsia and Preeclampsia

  
  Hypertensive conditions that can lead to seizures, organ damage, or death if untreated.

• Obstructed Labour

  
  When the baby cannot move through the birth canal, often requiring a C-section.

• Prolonged or Arrested Labour

  
  Labour that does not progress normally, often requiring medical intervention.

• Perineal Tears

  
  Vaginal tearing during childbirth, which obstetricians repair post-delivery.

• Umbilical Cord Complications

  
  Issues like prolapse or compression that can endanger the baby.

• Abnormal Foetal Heart Rate

  
  An indicator of foetal distress that may require urgent delivery.

• Premature Rupture of Membranes

  
  Early water breaking, increasing infection and preterm labour risks.

Which Specialist Do You Need?

Whether you should consult a gynaecologist or an obstetrician depends on your stage of life and specific health concerns.

When to See a Gynaecologist:

• For menstrual issues such as heavy, irregular, or painful periods
• For menopause-related symptoms like hot flashes or vaginal dryness
• For routine screenings like Pap smears, ultrasounds, or breast exams
• For contraception advice, fertility concerns, or family planning
• For treatment of endometriosis, fibroids, ovarian cysts, or incontinence

When to See an Obstetrician:

• If you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy
• For prenatal care, including scans and risk assessments
• For managing pregnancy complications
• For labour and delivery, whether vaginal or Caesarean
• For postnatal care and emotional support

Integrated Women’s Health Services

Many healthcare providers are trained in both fields (OB/GYN), offering comprehensive women's healthcare services.

At Healthcare for Women in Singapore, our team is skilled in both gynaecology and obstetrics, offering comprehensive care throughout every stage of a woman’s life. Led by our experienced female gynaecologist, Dr Chen Chern Yi, we’re committed to personalised care tailored to your needs.

Contact us at (65) 6681 6699 to schedule an appointment and take the next step in caring for your health.