Fantastic! Was seen right away and Dr. Saima really took her time to ensure that I received exceptional care. Will definitely continue to see and recommend Dr. Saima to others.
Gynecologist, Obstetrician
M.B.,B.S., D.G.O, F.C.P.S. (Gynecology & Obstetrics)
Gynecologist, Obstetrician
M.B.,B.S., D.G.O, F.C.P.S. (Gynecology & Obstetrics)
A doctor who has specialized in the treatment and diagnosis of problems and diseases related to the female reproductive system (uterus, Fallopian tubes, cervix, ovaries, and vagina) is termed as a gynecologist. Additionally, gynecologists focus on all kinds of reproductive health issues that may arise, from puberty up until menopause.
Another subspeciality is obstetrics (زچہ بچہ), which exclusively deals with maternal health during pregnancy and childbirth. Most gynecologists in Pakistan specialize in both fields, and hence are collectively referred to as OB-GYN.
A visit to the gynecologist is due when girls and women face issues with their periods. Irregular, painful periods with heavy flow are common concerns that gynecologists deal with all the time. Menopause is also a daunting stage in the life of a woman where the issues are aplenty. From cycle to hormones, if you have any such concerns, visiting a gynecologist is imperative.
Similarly, you should visit a gynecologist when you want to explore your contraception options and likewise, when you want to get pregnant. During pregnancy and for delivery, you should visit an OB-GYN (زچگی کی ڈاکٹر) or an obstetrician instead of relying on midwives alone. OB-GYNs have access to sophisticated testing equipment that better informs them of the health of the mother and child. Moreover, they also are fully equipped for an emergency delivery; natural or surgical, unlike midwives.
Furthermore, you should visit a women’s doctor if you are having problems with muscles of the pelvic region, abdominal pain, have inflammation in the pelvic region etc. Gynecologists also deal with urinary and fecal incontinence, and hence women experiencing these issues ought to go to one.
Ideally, women with family history of uterine cancer or any other form of cancer pertaining to the reproductive system should visit a gynecologist annually. A timely diagnosis can greatly increase chances of survival.
Gynecologists also deal with sexual dysfunction. If you are experiencing painful sex, have low sex drive, have vaginal dryness, you should talk to your gynecologists.
Gynecologists deal with the issues pertaining to the sexual and reproductive health of women. They set out to diagnose, treat and manage the ailments concerning the reproductive system of women.
OB-GYN are physicians and surgeons, both. They cater to maternal health during pregnancy and at childbirth.
Common problems that are dealt with by gynecologists include the following:
Oftentimes, gynecologists(گائيني کولوجِسٹ) offer general health care in addition to gynecological care. This may include preventative medicine for women as well as treatment and diagnosis of conditions like acne, mood changes, frequent headaches and lower back pain.
Gynecologists are accosted with many different problems, although some are more common than the others. Following table shows the prevalent issues in Pakistan that are being catered by the OB-GYNs.
Problem | Percentage of Patients |
---|---|
Menstrual irregularity | 41.1% |
Reproductive tract infections | 27.8% |
Subfertility | 18.2% |
Urogynecology | 5.3% |
Menopause | 4% |
Benign genital tract tumor | 2% |
Gynecological malignancies | 0.7% |
In order to become a gynecologist ( ماہر أمراض نسواں ) in Pakistan, one has to complete 5 years of medical school, followed by a year of house job. After this, they have to give exams related to their specialty to get registered with the College of Physicians and Surgeons, Pakistan and have to complete their training program. Those specializing in obstetrics need added training to become an accredited OB-GYN.
Gynecologists and OB-GYN generally deal with reproductive health, pregnancy and childbirth. However, there a number of different kinds of gynecologists:
Even though the prevailing term being used is Gynecologist(زچگی ماہر) –even to refer to obstetricians—there are other titles associated with them as well. These include:
A gynecologist (خواتین کی ڈاکٹر ) provides treatment for the plethora of problems faced by women from all age groups. They cater to the period problems faced by teenagers, sexual and family planning issues of the middle age women and provide care for older, menopausal women.
Gynecologists also treat many diseases and conditions pertaining to reproductive health like ovarian cysts, fibroids, infections, tumors, abnormalities of the reproductive tract, etc. They are also the first doctors to be contacted in cases of fertility issues.
OB-GYN specialists provide the necessary maternal care; pregnancy is a very tricky time in the life of a woman and if it is not handled well, women can even lose their lives. Monitoring the health of the mother and the fetus is hence an extremely important task.
There are many ailments that concern the pelvic and abdominal regions that may not necessarily be due to some gynecological issue. However, women in Pakistan find it easier to discuss these issues with their female doctor i.e., gynecologist rather than a general physician.
Moreover, gynecologists also deal with the welfare of women in general. In an orthodox community, women do not have many avenues to discuss their sexual health. Gynecologists also thus serve to remedy sexual problems, inform and provide their patients of safe sex options and are confidantes of many women. They are at the forefront of furthering the cause for female, and especially maternal, health.