Gynecology is a specialized area of medicine that focuses on the female body. There’s much confusion, and some folks don’t truly understand the roles of these physicians. Female health is an expansive field, and many doctors only focus on one aspect of this practice. Here are some interesting facts about gynecologists that you should know.
1. Historical Writings About Gynecology Date Back to the 5th century B.C.
As a human being, you were conceived and delivered by your mother. Going back through historical writings about labor and delivery through the ages has proven beneficial. While the methods have certainly changed, the information provided has helped this specialty get to where it is today.
Since women have given birth since the dawn of time, plenty of documentation discusses it. The first ancient writings trace back to the period of Hippocrates. Not only does it describe the best way for a woman to deliver a child, but these historical records also detail the importance of postpartum care.
2. More Cesareans Are Performed Than Any Other Surgeries
Every day hospitals are full of patients undergoing surgery. You would think having a heart bypass or removing the appendix would be high-ranking. However, you might be surprised to know that the most performed operation in this country is the c-section.
As times have changed, more women are opting to have this operation as an elective procedure. Controlling when you give birth is helpful for planning and not waiting till the baby decides to make an appearance. Additionally, ladies at high risk, or those with previous cesareans, usually go this route to minimize danger to themselves and the unborn child.
Many women like the favored method of inducing labor. While it does speed things up, it also increases the chances of having an emergency c-section. Anytime there’s a change in the baby’s heart rate or the mother’s ability to deliver the child vaginally, a c-section is imperative.
While having a cesarean is known to cause significant risks to the mother and child, a study found that the hospital and its track record is the most significant consideration, so it pays to do your homework.
3. There\'s an Increase in Female Gynecologists
Male doctors once dominated the specialized field of gynecology, but things have drastically changed. However, the past two decades have shown tremendous progress, with more female physicians joining the growing field.
When dealing with such a private area, some women are comforted knowing they have a doctor with similar bodily issues. It\'s estimated that 85 percent of resident gynecological doctors are now females. More diversity in this field of medicine allows more people to be treated and not avoid appointments because they’re uncomfortable.
4. Gynecology is Divided into Subspecialties
Gynecology is a wide-encompassing term that describes four separate subspecialties: oncology, maternal medicine, reproductive health, and urogynecology. Some doctors specialize in female cancer, while others focus on infertility and obstetrics.
A common problem after childbirth or that comes with age is a weak pelvic floor. When these muscles become weak, it can cause urine leakage, which is embarrassing. Specialists in urogynecology can help women regain their freedom and reverse the damage.
Some physicians can cross over and have extensive knowledge of several of these specialties, but not all of them fall into this category. They must be certified in these categories to practice in them.
5. These Doctors Are Involved in Cutting-Edge Research
Technology has changed everything, and many advances have revolutionized female health care. It’s no wonder that obstetrics and gynecology fit into this category. Things like in-vitro fertilization and freezing eggs weren’t heard of in the 1970s, but today’s woman has choices if she wants to wait to have a baby later in life. Gynecologists must stay updated on new and exciting developments to help their patients. Some of the best discoveries are coming about in this field of medicine.
Most women dread their yearly visits because they feel intrusive and compromise their privacy. However, visits to the gynecologist save lives. Whether you’re seeing this specialist for pelvic floor issues or to have a baby, it’s necessary and something you should never put off till later.