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Obstetrics & Gynecology in Augusta, GA
what is an obstetrician

What is an Obstetrician? Complete Guide for Women’s Health

According to the National Institutes of Health, about 700 maternal deaths occur in the U.S. each year. All the cases result from pregnancy and delivery complications.

More than half of these deaths could have been prevented by seeking early obstetrician help. Obstetrics specialists can monitor your reproductive health, ensuring you’re on the right path.

But let’s face it! Many women are still not familiar with who obstetricians are.

So, what is an obstetrician, and how can it streamline your health journey? Explore their role in women’s health care.

Who Is an Obstetrician?

Obstetricians don’t just focus on pregnancy and childbirth. They also offer postpartum care, which is essential for monitoring new mothers who have just given birth. Quality postpartum care is also critical to helping new mothers recover quickly.

Obstetricians don’t work alone. They collaborate with gynecologists to provide comprehensive women’s health care services.

Obstetricians with gynecological expertise specialize in:

  • Treating menstrual and hormonal disorders
  • Managing pelvic pain
  • Managing premenstrual stress disorder (PSD)
  • Helping women manage weight
  • Contraceptive management
  • Menopause hormone replacement

They treat a range of women’s reproductive health conditions, such as:

  • Fibroids
  • Disorder of the ovaries
  • Vaginal infections like STIs and bacterial vaginosis
  • Infertility
  • Bladder infections
  • Menstrual disorders like endometriosis

Obstetrician Roles and Responsibilities

Obstetrician specialists aim to keep the mother and baby healthy and safe during pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum. Check out some obstetrician roles:

During Pregnancy

Pregnancy is a sensitive period for women due to hormonal imbalances and many health risks. Luckily, obstetricians minimize any risks by closely monitoring maternal and fetal health.

Pregnancy monitoring allows obstetricians to develop personalized care plans. Some tests that allow easier monitoring include:

  • Ultrasound scans
  • Screening tests
  • Non-stress tests
  • Diagnostic tests such as blood tests and amniocentesis

The above tests allow for early diagnosis of problems like:

  • Spina bifida
  • Chromosomal anomalies
  • Hypertension
  • Thyroid disease
  • Weakened cervix

Ultrasounds also enable obstetricians to determine the number of fetuses in your pregnancy. Other related things these specialists assess include:

  • Fetal growth and development
  • Placenta location
  • Fetal age
  • Amount of amniotic fluid

Obstetricians offer counseling during pregnancy. They can educate you on healthy lifestyle adjustments, like:

  • Regular physical workouts
  • Healthy diets rich in fiber, calcium, potassium, and vitamin D
  • Getting enough sleep
  • Avoiding smoking and alcohol

If it’s your first pregnancy, an obstetrician can educate you about labor preparation, making you psychologically ready.

During Childbirth

Labor and delivery are nerve-wracking moments. You need professional care to prevent complications. Obstetricians assist in managing labor and delivery by checking the mother’s contractions.

Expert maternity care also involves monitoring the baby’s heart rate, which allows the care providers to check whether uterine contractions during labor occur correctly. Checking the baby’s heart rate also helps determine if there is fetal distress, which can result from hypoxia-a lack of adequate oxygen to the baby.

Obstetrics specialists offer pain management solutions during childbirth, and these include medications like IV narcotics. They also perform deliveries, which include vaginal or C-section deliveries. C-section deliveries are helpful when there are emergencies like:

  • Weak uterine contractions
  • Wrong baby’s position
  • Placental issues
  • Umbilical cord issues
  • Serious conditions like hypertension

During Postpartum

Obstetricians monitor how new mothers recover after giving birth. They will check for possible postpartum complications like:

  • Excess bleeding
  • Infections such as mastitis and urinary tract infections
  • Pelvic girdle pain

Obstetricians also educate new mothers on how to care for their newborns. They emphasize things like:

  • Proper breastfeeding
  • Bathing
  • Detection of danger signs

Obstetrics professionals help new mothers easily transition to parenthood, enabling easier management of potential psychological issues like anxiety.

Once you recover, an obstetrician can help you plan your future pregnancies. They can discuss birth control and family planning.

Benefits of Visiting an Obstetrician

An obstetrician offers psychological, emotional, and social support. Adequate emotional support can boost your mood during pregnancy.

Visiting an obstetrician allows for early diagnosis and treatment, preventing more life-threatening complications like preeclampsia. Obstetrician-gynecologists (OB-GYNs) assist women with infertility. The problem comes in two categories – primary and secondary infertility.

An OB-GYN can help diagnose the cause of your infertility, which may include:

  • Reproductive problems like endometriosis
  • Ovulation disorders
  • Uterine abnormalities like uterine fibroids

Expert maternity care also involves preconception counseling. An obstetrician will evaluate your medical history and overall health to help you get pregnant safely.

Obstetrics Care Services

Obstetricians offer pregnancy and prenatal care services. They can help make your pregnancy an exciting and healthy experience. Whether it’s a low- or high-risk pregnancy, don’t shy away from scheduling a consultation.

OB-GYNs also perform minimally invasive surgeries, which include endometrial ablation and laparoscopy.

Other OB-GYN services that help improve women’s reproductive health include:

  • Osteoporosis treatment
  • Mammography
  • Urinary incontinence therapy
  • Automated breast ultrasound

Choosing the Right Obstetrician

Not all obstetricians you meet will have the right qualifications. Therefore, finding the right specialist may be overwhelming. Thorough research will help you narrow down a competent specialist who can address your concerns.

Remember, it’s about finding someone to help enhance your overall well-being. Take time to verify credentials and qualifications.

Choose an obstetrics specialist who has completed medical school and passed relevant tests. Also, confirm that the specialist you choose has legal licensing.

The Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology (ABOG) licenses American obstetricians. Request that your doctor show you proof of their licensing.

Inquire about the fees charged by your obstetrician. While it’s good to save, don’t compromise on quality. So don’t go for doctors charging extremely low fees.

Read your doctor’s online reviews to verify their reputation. You can also ask for referrals and recommendations from friends and family members.

What Is an Obstetrician? Improving Women’s Reproductive Health

For a long time, you’ve probably been asking yourself, “What is an obstetrician?” No more guesswork! You’ve got the correct information.

Pregnancy and childbirth are among life’s most significant parts. Therefore, you need expert maternity care for quality support.

Women’s Health of Augusta, P.C., has over five decades of experience providing comprehensive and excellent obstetrics and gynecology services in the CSRA. Our physicians, led by Allan Joseph, M.D., and Laura Lee Joiner, M.D., are members of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists and are all certified by the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology.

You deserve the best maternity care at every stage. Call us today!

gynecologist tool

Essential Gynecologist Tool Guide: Key Instruments in Women’s Health

Are you apprehensive about getting a gynecological exam? Understanding the tools and instruments involved can help ease your anxiety. Gynecological visits involve a range of tools designed to ensure thorough and safe care.

Today we’re taking a closer look into the essential gynecologist tool guide, covering key instruments like the speculum, colposcope, and more!

Basic Gynecologist Tool Guide

Basic examination tools are essential for routine gynecological check-ups, ensuring that doctors can perform thorough assessments of reproductive health. There are three primary examination tools that gynecologists use in standard check-ups:

  • Speculum
  • Gloves and Lubricant
  • Swabs and Brushes

Speculum

The speculum is one of the most common tools used in gynecological exams. It gently opens the vaginal walls, allowing a clear view of the cervix.

It plays an essential role in helping gynecologists identify any abnormalities or signs of infection. The speculum comes in various sizes, so doctors can choose the most comfortable option for each patient.

Gloves and Lubricant

Gloves and lubricant are also necessary for any gynecological exam. Gloves maintain hygiene during the exam, and lubricant helps reduce discomfort, especially during internal examinations. They’re simple items but they’re important, ensuring that patients feel at ease.

Swabs and Brushes

Swabs and brushes are used to collect cells, typically during a Pap smear. The test screens for cervical cancer by collecting a sample of cells from the cervix.

The cell samples allow doctors to catch any potential health issues early. Swabs and brushes are fundamental tools, contributing to preventive care by supporting early detection. Together, these basic gynecological examination tools create a comfortable and thorough experience focused on health and safety.

Diagnostic Gynecology Instruments

Diagnostic instruments are essential for identifying underlying health conditions and assessing reproductive health with accuracy. There are three primary diagnostic instruments used in gynecology:

  • Colposcope
  • Ultrasound Probe
  • Biopsy Tools

Colposcope

The colposcope is a valuable tool when there is a need for closer examination of the cervix and surrounding tissues. It acts like a powerful magnifying glass, allowing the gynecologist to detect abnormalities that might not be visible with the naked eye. The colposcope is especially useful after an abnormal Pap smear result, as it enables doctors to investigate further and determine if there are any irregular cells that may need attention.

Ultrasound Probe

Ultrasound probes are also widely used in gynecology for diagnostic purposes. It helps provide a clear internal view of the reproductive organs, including the uterus and ovaries.

The ultrasound probe uses sound waves to create an image, allowing doctors to detect issues such as ovarian cysts, fibroids, or other conditions affecting the pelvic area. The ultrasound can also be used to confirm early pregnancy or monitor fetal development.

Biopsy Tools

Biopsy tools play a unique role in diagnostics by allowing doctors to collect small samples of tissue for analysis. If there is an area of concern, a biopsy can help determine if any cells are cancerous or pre-cancerous.

These tools are designed to make the process as smooth as possible, minimizing discomfort while providing essential information. The samples taken through a biopsy give gynecologists the information they need to plan further treatment or monitoring.

Medical Tools for Gynecologists: Surgical and Procedural

Gynecological procedures often require specialized tools to address various reproductive health concerns safely and effectively. There are three primary types of surgical and procedural tools used:

  • Forceps and Clamps
  • Curette
  • Dilators

Forceps and Clamps

Forceps and clamps are standard tools in many gynecological procedures. They allow gynecologists to grasp and hold tissues during procedures, providing control and precision.

They’re essential when performing procedures such as IUD insertions, where the device needs to be placed accurately. They’re also used during minor surgical treatments, helping secure tissue or hold an area steady while work is being done.

Curette

The curette is another essential tool in gynecological care, especially for uterine procedures. It’s designed to carefully remove tissue from the lining of the uterus.

Curettage, the process of using a curette, is often performed for diagnostic or therapeutic reasons, such as clearing tissue after a miscarriage or investigating abnormal uterine bleeding. The curette’s design allows for precise removal, which is vital in maintaining patient safety and ensuring effective outcomes.

Dilators

Dilators are used to gradually widen the cervical canal, creating access to the uterus for various procedures. It’s often necessary for procedures like hysteroscopies, which involve using a small camera to view the inside of the uterus, or for certain diagnostic tests. Dilators come in a range of sizes, allowing doctors to use the least invasive option needed to comfortably open the cervix.

Sterilization and Sanitation Equipment

Sterilization and sanitation are central to maintaining a safe and hygienic environment in any gynecological practice. Autoclaves are powerful machines that use high-pressure steam to kill bacteria, viruses, and other contaminants on medical tools.

They are essential in gynecology practices where instruments are reused regularly. The process is quick and thorough, ensuring that tools like forceps, clamps, and speculums are fully sterilized and ready for safe use on the next patient. Autoclaves make it easy to maintain the high standards of hygiene that medical practices demand.

Disinfectants are also critical in ensuring a sterile environment. While autoclaves focus on reusable instruments, disinfectants are used to clean surfaces, chairs, and other equipment that might come into contact with patients. It prevents cross-contamination and creates a safe setting, especially for patients who may already feel vulnerable during an exam.

Disposable covers and linens play a unique role by providing each patient with a fresh, sanitized surface. These items, such as disposable exam table covers and single-use gowns, add an extra layer of hygiene and comfort. They are especially useful in preventing any residual contact between patients, adding to the overall sense of cleanliness in the gynecological office.

Learning About Healthcare Tools for Women

Each gynecologist tool plays a role in supporting women’s health, from basic exams to advanced procedures.

At Women’s Health of Augusta, we offer complete obstetrics and gynecology care for women of all ages in Augusta, GA. With over 40 years of experience, our board-certified team provides compassionate, advanced care. We accept most insurances and welcome new patients.

Get in touch today to find out how we can help with your gynecology needs!

Vitamins and Women’s Health

Americans have the most expensive urine in the world!   Let me explain.

We are massive consumers of vitamins in this country, and unfortunately, much of the good stuff is eliminated from our body before it has any beneficial effect.  That is not to say that vitamin supplements are a waste, in fact, we strongly recommend that patients use certain vitamins and minerals.  Yet in a billion-dollar industry like the vitamin market, you must be a discerning consumer.  If you are going to take vitamins (and many of you should), you must first know your individual needs, and second, choose an appropriate dosage and quality.

    In general, most women in the country conform to the SAD diet (Standard American Diet), which leaves them short on some essential nutrients.  Vitamin supplements are used to either meet basic nutritional needs or to treat a particular problem such as anemia or hot flashes.  For most folks, the best way to make your body happy on a day-to-day basis is to eat balanced whole foods; but if you don’t (let’s be real here!), a basic multivitamin that contains Vitamins C, E, A, D, and the B series is essential.  Many will also contain important minerals for women including iron, calcium, magnesium, boron and potassium.   In spite of the many advertising claims otherwise, there is very little real difference among quality multivitamins.  We suggest doing your homework (a good place to start is www.ConsumerLab.com ) and get comfortable with a particular brand and then stick with it.  Your pharmacist or health food store may also be a great source of information.  Don’t walk into a discount warehouse or a grocery store and buy the first bottle you see. 

     Two vitally important caveats go with any vitamin or supplement.  First you must take an appropriate dose, and second, you must take the supplement for an appropriate time frame.  Herein lie many of the problems with vitamin use.  Dosage is important! That sounds simple, but consider what would happen if you took a tenth of an aspirin for a headache.  Probably nothing!  And it would be absurd to then conclude that aspirin doesn’t help headaches.  However, that is what happens all the time with vitamins and herbs.  The scientific studies that show beneficial effects of supplements are always performed with specific dosages, and it is essential to know what amounts are proven to be effective.  There are many reference books that list evidence based dosages from various studies. 

     Don’t forget that most vitamins and supplements don’t work overnight.  Many may take up to four to six weeks of continual use to achieve any benefits.  Some, like the antioxidants, need to be used on a regular basis to exert their action.    

    Certain individual vitamins have been shown to help specific problems.  Below is a list of common problems and their vitamin remedies that have at least one good study to compliment their use:

Hot Flashes, Breast tenderness,                             Vitamin E (d-alpha-tocopherol) 800IU /day

    

  

Antioxidant, immune enhancement                       Vitamin C (1-3 grams a day)

PMS                                                                                Vitamin B6 (50mg twice a day)

Anemia                                                                           Vitamin B12 (100 micrograms a day)

Vision                                                                              Vitamin A (2,500 IU a day)

Cold sores                                                                       Zinc  50 mg/ day

Bone health                                                                    Calcium 500-600 mg /day

                                                                                          Magnesium 200-400mg/day

                                                                                          Boron  3-5 mg / day

     As with all vitamins and supplements, always tell your doctor what you are taking, as there can be interaction between these substances and prescription medicines.