Gynecology, in the simplest sense, is the science of women.
It is the branch of medical sciences that specializes in the study of female reproductive organs, such as breasts, uterus, fallopian tubes, ovaries, and vagina. The doctors specializing in this branch are called gynecologists and are experts in treating various gynecological conditions such as irregular periods, vaginal/ urinary infections, pregnancy, abortion, ovarian cysts, uterine health conditions, and pelvic organ prolapse.
A gynecologist is a specialized doctor trained in the structure and functioning of a woman’s reproductive organs.
Most modern-day gynecologists not only specialize in the female reproductive system but also- fertility. They are then called- ‘Obstetrician Gynecologists’ (OB-GYN). These doctors can also aid you in improving ovulation, solving physical obstructions in the fallopian tube or uterus, and helping conceive a healthy pregnancy.
Doctors specializing in either or both fields are trained in both- medicine and surgery and hence capable of providing absolute solutions to regular/adverse gynecological complications.
Diagnostic procedure that allows the gynecologist to look inside the uterus
A hormonal disorder in which ovaries produce immature eggs
The procedure to terminate a pregnancy through surgery
Treatment to tighten the vagina using advanced laser procedure
A surgical procedure to repair / tighten the vagina
The procedure to terminate a pregnancy using medicines
A condition where endometrial tissue grows in the uterine wall
The spontaneous loss of a pregnancy before the 20th week
Soft growths on the walls of the vagina or inside the vagina
Surgical reconstruction or repair of a torn/broken hymen
Prenatal (before birth) and postpartum (after birth) healthcare for pregnant women
A solid or fluid-filled cyst within or on the surface of an ovary
Surgical removal of the uterus.
Surgery to reduce the size of inner and outer labia
Tissue that normally lines the uterus grows outside the uterus.
Pregnancy where a fertilized egg implants outside of the uterus
A non-cancerous tumour that develops in the uterus
Fluid-filled vaginal cyst that forms near the vaginal opening
Some of the most common gynecological conditions treated under gynecology are:
At most times, your gynecologist can understand your problem area or health condition through your symptoms or by asking you a few simple questions about the pain, abnormalities, period cycle, or sexual history. However, depending on your exact problem, your gynecologist might also do a physical exam.
A physical exam requires you to lie down on the exam table with knees bent and both legs placed in the stirrups at the base. Then your doctor physically examines your pelvic area while wearing sterile and lubricated gloves or specialized medical equipment.
In some cases, your doctor might also prescribe you a few diagnostic tests to confirm the condition indicated.
Though the tests a gynecologist might recommend depend directly on your symptoms and problem areas. Some of the tests include-
A gynecologist, in general, specializes in the study of the female reproductive system and all its organs. However, sometimes a gynecologist may specialize further in even more specific treatments, such as:
Both, a gynecologist and obstetricians specialize in the understanding and functioning of the female reproductive system. But, the only difference is that an obstetrician also specializes in pregnancy and childbirth. She can thus also help you conceive through assisted reproductive technologies, such as IUI/ IVF/ surrogacy.
An average consultation fee of a private gynecologist may range anywhere between Rs.500-Rs.1,500. However, the specifics may differ on the basis of your choice of doctor, her experience, clinic, your city, and consultation medium (online/offline).
A gynecologist appointment may run anytime between 20-40 minutes. However, again, the exact time may vary depending on your symptoms, specific health conditions, and any tests if needed.
Yes, doctors advise regular pelvic exams for women, especially, at the start of puberty, during reproductive years, and the onset of menopause. Therefore, it is important you see your doctor at least once a year for a regular check-up and to roll out any irregularities/ abnormal growth in your reproductive organs.
The best time to schedule a gynecologist appointment is 2 days after your last menstrual cycle.
Yes, absolutely! Girls under 16, too, can see a gynecologist, ask corresponding questions and seek relevant treatments if needed. However, for anything that requires surgery, your parent’s/ guardian’s consent may be required.
Both obstetricians and endocrinologists can help you but it primarily depends on the specific cause of your infertility. An obstetrician is a trained doctor specializing in all matters of female infertility whereas, an endocrinologist specializes in the human endocrine system, that is- hormones.
So, if the reason for your infertility is hormonal, an endocrinologist’s opinion might turn a little extra useful along with your obstetrician.
Multiple factors determine the final treatment cost of gynecological diseases. Some of the primary factors are:
Yes, since the root of most of the gynecological diseases is imbalanced hormonal health, gynecological diseases invariably affect your overall health too. Along with the obvious sensation on your abdomen, pelvic, or genitals, you would feel bloating, nausea, vomiting, and feverish chills. Some other effects include facial acne, oily skin, growth of facial hair, female pattern hair loss, etc.
On average, all our gynecologists at Max Health have an average experience of more than 8-10 years in gynecological surgeries. Depending on the severity of your condition, you could also choose among more specialized, experienced, or specific doctors.
Gynecological conditions if left untreated can result in multiple and severe complications depending upon the type of your disease. Some common complications include- internal bleeding, sepsis, twisting of ovaries, structural blockage in the fallopian tube, death of internal tissues, and cancerous growth in the uterus.
Yes, just like any other essential medical services, gynaecological problems, too, are covered under insurance. All major surgeries that are needed as a necessary medical surgery-such as, ovarian cyst removal(cystectomy), uterus removal( hysterectomy), or treatment for endometriosis/ uterine fibroids are covered under insurance.
However, surgeries done because of a ‘Choice’ and not a ‘medical necessity are not covered under it. These are:
Max Health assists you end-to-end on all parameters, including all insurance-related assistance. If you are considering surgery and are in doubts about its insurance coverage, we suggest you call us directly. Our team of insurance assistants can help you with the specific nuances of your policy on your individual case.
