Gynaecologie

Gynaecologie, or gynecology, is the branch of medicine that focuses on the female reproductive system and its disorders. It covers the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of conditions affecting the uterus, ovaries, fallopian tubes, vagina, and breasts, as well as aspects of female sexual and reproductive health. Gynaecology is distinct from obstetrics, which deals with pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period, though many physicians are trained in both areas and practice as obstetricians-gynecologists.

Common areas of care include menstrual disorders, contraception and family planning, infertility, pelvic pain, endometriosis, fibroids, ovarian cysts, cancers of the female reproductive tract (such as cervical, uterine, ovarian, and vulvar cancers), and menopausal management. Diagnostic tools include pelvic examination, Pap smear, ultrasound, MRI, and laboratory tests of hormone levels. Treatments range from medical therapies, such as hormonal management and antibiotics, to surgical interventions, including minimally invasive laparoscopy, hysterectomy, oophorectomy, and procedures to repair prolapse or incontinence.

Subspecialties exist within gynecology, such as gynecologic oncology, reproductive endocrinology and infertility, urogynecology, and minimally invasive gynecologic surgery, among others. Education and training requirements vary by country but typically involve medical school, a residency in gynecology, and subspecialty fellowships for advanced practice. Preventive care, patient education, and ethical considerations are important components of practice.