Gynecological

When a woman is in her childbearing years, much of her health can be dependent on the state of her reproductive systems. A gynecologist focuses on your health in general and the biological functions supporting reproduction in particular. This includes the menstrual cycle, fertility, pregnancy, as well as diseases and disorders that interrupt normal body functions.

Typically paired with the obstetrics discipline, gynecologists may or may not include a special focus on pregnancy and childbirth. General and family physicians also provide gynecological care, but choosing a MOGA gynecologist ensures quality care devoted to and centered around women.

A gynecologist’s care typically addresses any health issue arising from the uterus, vagina, fallopian tubes, and ovaries. Women’s breasts also require special care, and these also fall under your MOGA gynecologist’s purview. The range of care stretches from adolescence through adulthood, including menopause, after your reproductive years have ended.

When you become pregnant, care switches to obstetrics until your child is born. However, many gynecologists also practice obstetrics, the origin of the OB/GYN specialty. Discuss with your MOGA gynecological caregiver about their specialties. If they’re not already obstetrics practitioners, they can recommend another MOGA care provider.

Nearly every woman suffers from a gynecological disorder at some time in her life, though most will be minor and easy to treat. In some cases, however, diseases and disorders may be complex or with a wide-ranging health impact.

Common symptoms of gynecological disorders include:

• Bleeding irregularities through menstruation
• Infertility
• Bleeding during or after intercourse
• Lumps or sores present on the genitals
• Vaginal discharges with strong odors
• Burning sensations during urination
• Discomfort or pain during intercourse

These symptoms, or others, may indicate common gynecological conditions, such as:

• Fibroids: common tumors, usually benign, occurring commonly in the uterus
• Ovarian cysts: fluid-filled sacs in the ovaries that may interfere with the normal function of the ovaries
• Endometriosis: the irregular growth of uterine lining tissue in places other than the uterus, such as inside the fallopian tubes, for example
• Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS): ovarian symptoms caused by elevated levels of male hormones