Choosing a GYN (gynecologist) is no easy feat. It is essential to find someone who is caring, experienced, and someone you feel comfortable with. However, did you know that not all gynecologists have the same skillset? That’s right!
Your primary care physician might be able to perform a pap smear and some other wellness checkups for women. However, you would probably go see an OBGYN for prenatal care. This is because gynecology is a specialist service. Some OBGYNs are also primary care physicians, but it is not very common. Gynecology is also split into two different parts – there are generalists, and there are specialists. Although they may be similar, they are also slightly different. Depending on what your needs are may determine which gynecologist is better for you.
What is a gynecology specialist?
Gynecology specialists mostly work with surgeries for women’s health care. They are highly trained surgeons, but they perform less invasive procedures. Their primary focus is on procedures, not women’s health itself. Because of this, most of their time is devoted to surgical cases. They can use a variety of techniques to complete surgeries with less complications.
Because they perform such a high number of surgical procedures, they continue to develop, maintain, and grow their expertise. Specialists usually offer many different options for surgical procedures. If it is recommended that you need to undergo an open surgery, it may be beneficial to speak to a specialist. They might recommend a less invasive surgery if you meet the general requirements.
What is a gynecology generalist?
Generalists refers to general practitioners, internists, and OBGYNs. While they are highly trained and skilled physicians, some surgeries may need to be performed by advanced surgeons in the field.
Generalists have taken completed all the schooling and training necessary to become highly qualified in all of their duties. However, it isn’t common for generalists to complete extensive training in minimally invasive surgery for oncology or gynecology. Most OBGYNs use the help of robots to perform surgeries today.
How can I choose who is right for me?
The biggest difference between a generalist and specialist is time. 100% of a specialist’s time is devoted to surgery. Half of a generalist’s time is focused on obstetrics, while 25% is spent in the office, and the other 25% is spent performing surgeries. OBGYNs perform 27 hysterectomies a year on average, but a specialist performs around 400 hysterectomies each year.
Remember, you are your best advocate. When it comes to choosing an OBGYN, do your research, and trust your gut. You will talk about some of the most sensitive topics with your OBGYN, so it may take some time before you find someone you feel comfortable with.
You usually won’t go to a specialist unless you need surgery. Specialists don’t specialize in women’s health care – only women’s surgical procedure. If you need to undergo a simple, common procedure, you may not even need to leave your OBGYN for a specialist. Talk to your OBGYN before making any plans. If you are worried about a big surgery that has high risks of complications, they may refer you to a specialist.
Institute for Women’s Health in San Antonio, Texas
If you are looking for an OB/GYN in San Antonio, rest assured you’ll find the right gynecologist for you at the Institute for Women’s Health. We have over 30 skilled and experienced physicians who can provide the women’s health care services you are looking for. Plus, we have nine locations across town, so there is a caring specialist near you. Find the location nearest to you today! For more information or to book an appointment, call our team at 210-349-6626 or 210-34-WOMAN.
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