gynaecologists

Gynaecologists are medical doctors who specialize in the health of the female reproductive system and in sexual and reproductive health across a person’s lifespan. They diagnose and treat conditions affecting the uterus, ovaries, fallopian tubes, cervix, vagina, and vulva. In some health systems, obstetricians focus on pregnancy and childbirth, while gynaecologists handle non-pregnant reproductive health; in other systems, the two fields are combined as obstetricians and gynaecologists (OB-GYN).

Gynaecologists provide routine preventive care and screening, such as pelvic examinations, Pap tests, and HPV testing. They manage menstrual disorders, contraception and family planning, infertility assessments, and menopausal symptoms. They treat infections and conditions such as endometriosis, fibroids, polycystic ovary syndrome, and pelvic organ prolapse, and they diagnose and treat cancers of the reproductive tract. When surgical intervention is needed, they perform a range of procedures, including minimally invasive surgeries (laparoscopy, hysteroscopy), as well as hysterectomy, oophorectomy, tubal ligation, and other gynecologic surgeries.

Training and qualifications typically involve completing medical school followed by a residency in obstetrics and gynaecology. Many gynaecologists pursue subspecialty fellowships in areas such as reproductive endocrinology and infertility, gynaecologic oncology, and urogynecology. Certification requirements vary by country but commonly include board examinations or equivalent credentials.

Practice settings include hospitals, clinics, and academic centres. Gynaecologists work with multidisciplinary teams and refer to or collaborate with other specialists such as obstetricians, urologists, oncologists, radiologists, and pathologists to provide comprehensive care.