Gynecology and obstetrics - MiniHospital “S.Pertini”

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Gynecology and obstetrics

Gynecology and Obstetric

Gynecology is the branch that examines the anatomical integrity and functioning of the female reproductive system (uterus, ovaries, fallopian tubes, and breasts), identifying and treating the pathologies and dysfunctions that may affect it. Gynecology is commonly associated with obstetrics, and the fundamental difference between the two specialties is that obstetrics specifically deals with the process of pregnancy, from conception to childbirth.

Among the diseases and disorders treated by gynecology, in fertile age and after menopause, there are menstrual cycle alterations, ovarian cysts, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), endometriosis, inflammations and infections, tumors, fibroids, early menopause, uterovaginal prolapse, and urinary incontinence.

Gynecological examination

Through the gynecological examination, the specialist evaluates the female genital system, and the consultation usually precedes any other diagnostic tests that are performed with specific tools. The goal of the examination is to assess the external (vulva) and internal (vagina, cervix, fallopian tubes, and ovaries) genital system to identify any disorders or pathologies. In addition to the gynecological specialist examination, it is possible to perform colposcopy, which allows images to be magnified from 6 to 40 times and thus visualize and analyze the vaginal wall and the cervix (or uterine cervix).

The examination is indicated when the PAP test, a widespread screening test, has highlighted elements to investigate further, or anomalies of the vagina or cervix have been detected during the gynecological examination: genital warts, polyps, or other formations can be removed. Additionally, the gynecologist may request laboratory tests relevant to various issues of the female reproductive system and any radiological examinations.