Gynecologist is the colloquial name for a gynecologist. This deals with gynecology, that is, the diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the female reproductive and sexual tract.
What is a gynecologist (gynecologist)?
The gynecologist deals with gynecology, that is, the diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the female reproductive and sexual tract. Gynecologists or gynecologists are dedicated to maintaining and restoring the health of the female reproductive organs. For this reason, specialists in gynecology are usually referred to more generally as “gynecologists.” The official title is “specialist in gynecology and obstetrics“. The basic requirement for working as a gynecologist is a medical degree from a university. Afterwards, prospective gynecologists must complete five years of specialized training. At least three of these years must be spent on the ward. The duties of a trained gynecologist include performing surgical procedures such as sterilization, as well as counseling patients regarding unfulfilled childbearing wishes or different contraceptive methods.
Treatments
Gynecologists primarily deal with diseases of the female reproductive organs and issues related to conception in their daily work. This includes the diagnosis and treatment of venereal diseases and benign or malignant changes, as well as the prescription of a contraceptive that suits the patient. Surgical interventions, such as the removal of cysts and tumors, as well as sterilization, are performed by the gynecologist when necessary. Childless couples can seek advice from the specialist regarding supportive methods such as hormone treatments. In the case of pregnancy, the gynecologist monitors the development of the unborn embryo and can thus detect any problems that may arise at an early stage. In addition to these basic areas of treatment in gynecology, the gynecologist can also specialize in another area if desired. So-called prenatal medicine focuses on monitoring the unborn child. In pediatric gynecology, malformations of the child’s reproductive organs are treated, among other things. Here again, special knowledge of pediatrics and also psychology is necessary. If a gynecologist specializes in senology, the study of the female breast, he is particularly qualified to diagnose and treat diseases and changes in the breast (e.g., breast cancer).
Diagnostic and examination methods
Gynecologists have a variety of examination methods at their disposal, which they can use for diagnosis depending on the individual case. A routine examination usually includes an examination of the vagina, uterus, and ovaries. For this purpose, the patient lies in a special gynecological chair, which allows the gynecologist to reach the relevant organs particularly well. First, an ultrasound image of the uterus and surrounding organs is taken. In this way, any changes can be detected. The ovaries are then examined by means of a palpation examination. With the help of a speculum inserted into the vagina, the gynecologist can examine the cervix and the inside of the vagina, among other things. At the same time, a smear test can be taken, during which a sample of the mucous membrane is taken. This is later examined in the laboratory and can provide information about possible pathological changes. Depending on the patient’s physical condition, the instruments are available in different sizes. Before palpating and inserting the speculum, the gynecologist uses a lubricant gel to prevent the examination from being uncomfortable or even painful for the patient. If a disease is suspected, further examinations may be performed in the office or, if necessary, in the hospital. If a pregnancy is to be monitored, the development of the fetus is performed with the help of the ultrasound machine. In addition, the heart tones of the unborn child are measured.
What should patients be aware of?
Gynecologists are located throughout Germany, Austria and Switzerland. A total of just under 20000 trained gynecologists are registered with the German Society for Gynecology and Obstetrics.When choosing their gynecologist, patients should of course first pay attention to professional competence. If a gynecologist with special expertise is desired, his qualifications should be checked. Since very intimate parts of the body are examined during the gynecological examination, it is also important when choosing the right gynecologist that the patient feels comfortable in the doctor’s hands and trusts him. Therefore, patients should not be ashamed to change their gynecologist if they cannot establish a relationship of trust with him. Exchange of experience with other women is still useful to find the appropriate gynecologist.
