obstetrice

Obstetrice is a term that historically referred to a female obstetrician, the physician who specializes in pregnancy, labor, and the postpartum period. In modern English, the gender-neutral term obstetrician is used for both men and women, and obstetrice is considered archaic or regionally dated. The root comes from obstetrics, with the Latin obstetrix meaning midwife or pregnancy attendant; in some languages, such as French, obstétrice remains the standard feminine form for an obstetrician or midwife.

Role and responsibilities

Obstetricians provide prenatal care, monitor fetal development, screen for complications, and manage labor and delivery. They perform deliveries, including cesarean sections when indicated, and provide postpartum care. They may coordinate with neonatal teams and offer care for high-risk pregnancies, such as those involving multiple gestations, maternal medical conditions, or fetal abnormalities. Practices often occur in hospitals or dedicated birth centers, and obstetricians may be involved in ultrasound screening, genetic counseling, and guidance on birth plans and contraception postpartum.

Training and certification

Obstetricians are physicians who complete medical school followed by residency training in obstetrics and gynecology. Many pursue subspecialty training in areas such as maternal-fetal medicine, reproductive endocrinology, or gynecologic oncology. Certification typically comes from a national medical board, with licensure requirements varying by country.

See also

Obstetrics, midwife. In many healthcare systems, midwives provide normal pregnancy care, while obstetricians focus on medical management of pregnancy and delivery, especially in high-risk cases or when surgical intervention is needed.