Gynecology: A Guide for Clinicians & Healthcare Facilities

At its core, gynecology is the specialized field of medicine dedicated to the health and well-being of the female reproductive system. This intricate system includes the uterus (womb), vagina, cervix, ovaries, and fallopian tubes.

While often bundled with obstetrics (the specialty of pregnancy and childbirth), gynecology is a distinct and vital discipline on its own. 

Its focus is the female body outside of the pregnant state, addressing a vast spectrum of needs from adolescence through menopause and beyond.

This guide will explore the full breadth of this essential medical specialty, from its history to its modern-day advancements, providing a comprehensive overview for patients and healthcare professionals alike.

Gynecology explained: A comprehensive guide for everyone

What is gynecology? 

This introduction to gynecology serves as a starting point for understanding a field that is foundational to preventive healthcare. The basics of gynecology encompass everything from routine preventive screenings, like the Pap smear, to the diagnosis and complex surgical treatment of conditions such as endometriosis or uterine fibroids.

The importance of gynecological health cannot be overstated. It is not merely about reproductive capability; it is about overall quality of life. Issues within this system can impact urinary function, hormonal balance, sexual health, and even mental well-being.

Proactive gynecological care empowers individuals with knowledge about their bodies, provides tools for family planning, and offers a crucial first line of defense in detecting and treating cancers and other serious conditions. 

Gynecology in healthcare serves several critical functions:

1. Preventive screening: This is perhaps the most well-known aspect. Routine gynecological visits are the primary setting for cervical cancer screening (Pap and HPV tests), breast cancer screening (clinical breast exams and mammogram referrals), and screening for sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Early detection through these screenings dramatically improves prognosis and treatment outcomes.
2. Diagnosis and treatment: Gynecologists are medical detectives for the pelvic region. They diagnose and manage a wide array of conditions, from common yeast infections and urinary tract infections (UTIs) to chronic, complex diseases like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and endometriosis. They offer solutions for issues that significantly impact quality of life, such as pelvic pain, painful periods (dysmenorrhea), and abnormal uterine bleeding.
3. Contraception and family planning: Gynecology provides the essential framework for reproductive autonomy. Gynecologists and associated practitioners (like nurse practitioners and certified nurse-midwives) counsel patients on the full spectrum of contraceptive options, from barrier methods and hormonal pills to long-acting reversible contraceptives (LARCs) like IUDs and implants. This allows individuals to plan their families and futures.
4. Menstrual and hormonal health: The menstrual cycle is often called the "fifth vital sign." Irregular, painful, or heavy periods are not just inconveniences; they can be indicators of underlying hormonal imbalances or structural problems. Gynecologists manage these issues, providing relief and addressing root causes.
5. Navigating life transitions: Gynecology provides essential guidance through major life stages. This includes educating adolescents about their changing bodies, providing pre-conception counseling to those planning a family, and, crucially, managing the transition to menopause. Menopausal care, including hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and management of symptoms like hot flashes and vaginal dryness, is a key part of modern gynecology.

History and evolution of gynecology

The history of gynecology is a long and complex journey, tracing back to ancient civilizations. 

The Kahun Gynaecological Papyrus from ancient Egypt (circa 1800 BCE) is one of the oldest known medical texts, detailing gynecological conditions, diagnoses, and treatments. In ancient Greece, Hippocrates wrote about disorders of the uterus, and physicians of the Roman Empire also documented their understanding of female anatomy and disease.

However, for centuries, the field was shrouded in taboo and limited by a lack of scientific understanding. The "father of modern gynecology," J. Marion Sims, is a deeply controversial figure. While he developed pioneering surgical techniques in the 19th century, his breakthroughs were achieved through experimental surgeries on enslaved Black women without anesthesia, a stark and painful reminder of the field's unethical origins.

In contrast, figures like Elizabeth Blackwell, the first woman to receive a medical degree in the United States, helped pave the way for women to enter the profession, bringing new perspectives to female healthcare.

A true overview of gynecology as a modern specialty begins with key 20th-century milestones. The most significant was arguably the development of the Pap smear by Dr. Georgios Papanicolaou in the 1940s. This simple screening test revolutionized cancer prevention, drastically reducing mortality rates from cervical cancer.

The advent of antibiotics allowed for the effective treatment of pelvic infections, while advancements in endocrinology (the study of hormones) unlocked treatments for infertility, menstrual disorders, and menopause.

In a modern context, the field has evolved from a reactive, problem-focused specialty to a proactive, holistic, and preventive one. The development of ultrasound, laparoscopy (minimally invasive surgery), and hormonal contraception has transformed treatment options, making them safer, less invasive, and more effective than ever before. This evolution continues today as science delves deeper into the genetic and molecular basis of gynecological health.

Understanding gynecology: What it covers

For those seeking to learn about gynecology, it's helpful to break down the full scope of the specialty. Understanding gynecology means recognizing that it is a comprehensive field covering diagnostics, non-surgical management, and surgical intervention for the female reproductive and associated organs.

The practice of gynecology is built on a foundation of routine assessment. The "annual visit" or "well-woman exam" is the gateway to this care. This visit typically includes:

• A detailed medical history: Updating personal and family health history and discussing menstrual cycles, sexual health, medications, and any new symptoms
• A physical exam: Checking vital signs and performing a clinical breast exam to feel for lumps or abnormalities
• A pelvic exam: Performing a three-part exam of the pelvic region

These are the three parts of a pelvic exam:

1. External visual inspection: Checking the vulva for any signs of irritation, cysts, or other issues
2. Internal visual inspection: Using a speculum to view the vagina and cervix and collecting a cell sample for a Pap smear
3. Bimanual exam: Inserting two gloved fingers into the vagina while gently pressing on the abdomen to feel the size, shape, and position of the uterus and ovaries

Beyond this routine exam, the field of gynecology encompasses a vast diagnostic and therapeutic landscape.

When and why to access gynecological care

• Adolescence (ages 13-15): The first visit is recommended during these years. It is typically just a conversation with the provider to establish a relationship, discuss menstruation, preventative vaccinations (like the HPV vaccine), and safe sex. A pelvic exam is not usually performed unless there is a specific problem, such as severe pain or lack of a period by age 15.
• Young adulthood (ages 21+): Routine pelvic exams and Pap smears typically begin at age 21, regardless of sexual activity. This is also a critical time for contraception counseling and STI screening.
• Throughout adulthood: Regular visits (annually or as recommended) continue for preventive screenings, managing any emerging conditions (like fibroids or endometriosis), and pre-conception or fertility counseling.
• Menopause and post-menopause: Gynecological care is essential after menopause. While Pap smears may become less frequent, screenings for uterine and ovarian cancers, as well as management of menopausal symptoms, bone density, and pelvic floor issues (like incontinence or prolapse) become the primary focus.

It is also a vital piece of general knowledge in gynecology to understand that care is inclusive. Transgender men who retain their cervix, uterus, or ovaries still require routine gynecological screenings, such as Pap smears, to prevent cancer.

Gynecology aims to provide competent, respectful care to all individuals with female reproductive organs.

Common gynecological conditions

A significant part of a gynecologist's role is the diagnosis and management of common gynecological conditions. 

These can range from minor, acute infections to chronic, complex diseases. Understanding these conditions can help individuals identify symptoms and seek care promptly.

Menstrual disorders

These are among the most frequent reasons for a gynecology visit.

• Dysmenorrhea: Clinically significant pain during menstruation (cramps) that can be severe enough to interfere with daily activities
• Menorrhagia: Unusually heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding
• Amenorrhea: The absence of a menstrual period, either primary (never starting by age 15) or secondary (periods stopping for three months or more)
• Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) & premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD): A collection of physical and emotional symptoms that occur before menstruation—PMDD is a severe, often debilitating form

Structural conditions

These involve abnormalities in the structure of the reproductive organs.

• Uterine fibroids (Leiomyomas): These are benign (non-cancerous) tumors that grow in or on the walls of the uterus. They are extremely common and can cause heavy bleeding, pelvic pain, and pressure.
• Ovarian cysts: These are fluid-filled sacs that develop on or in an ovary. They are mostly harmless and resolve on their own, but some can cause pain, rupture, or (rarely) be cancerous.
• Pelvic organ prolapse: This is a condition where the muscles and ligaments of the pelvic floor weaken, causing the uterus, bladder, or rectum to "drop" or bulge into the vagina.

Hormonal & inflammatory conditions

These systemic conditions are often managed by gynecology specialists:

• Endometriosis: This is a chronic and often painful condition where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus (the endometrium) grows outside the uterus, on organs like the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and pelvic lining. This tissue bleeds with the menstrual cycle, causing inflammation, pain, and scar tissue.
• Polycystic ovary syndrome: This is a common hormonal disorder in individuals of reproductive age. It is characterized by irregular periods, excess androgen (male hormone) levels, and multiple small cysts on the ovaries. PCOS is a leading cause of infertility and is linked to other health issues like diabetes and heart disease. As a disorder of the hormone system, it often requires co-management with specialists in endocrinology.

Infections

• Vaginitis: Inflammation of the vagina, most commonly caused by yeast infections (candidiasis) or bacterial vaginosis (BV), an imbalance of normal vaginal bacteria
• Sexually transmitted infections: Chlamydia, gonorrhea, herpes, trichomoniasis, and human papillomavirus (HPV), all diagnosed and managed by gynecologists
• Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID): A serious infection of the reproductive organs, often a complication of untreated STIs like chlamydia or gonorrhea; can lead to chronic pelvic pain and infertility

Pre-cancerous and cancerous conditions

• Cervical dysplasia (or CIN): This refers to abnormal, pre-cancerous changes in the cells of the cervix, almost always caused by HPV. It is detected by a Pap smear and is highly treatable.
• Gynecologic cancers: These include cancers of the cervix, uterus (endometrial), ovaries, vagina, and vulva. They are managed by a subspecialist called a gynecologic oncologist.

Regular monitoring is crucial for many of these conditions, especially endometriosis, PCOS, and fibroids, to manage symptoms and prevent long-term complications.

Common gynecology procedures and screenings

As explained earlier, the field is highly procedural, focused on both screening and treatment. Many of these procedures are performed in the office, while others are minimally invasive surgeries.

In-office screenings and procedures

• Pelvic exam: This is the foundational assessment, described previously, to visually and manually check the reproductive organs.
• Pap smear (or Pap test): This is a screening test, not a diagnostic one, where a small brush or spatula is used to collect cells from the cervix. These cells are sent to a lab to look for pre-cancerous or cancerous changes.
• HPV test: This test looks for the DNA of high-risk types of the human papillomavirus. It is often performed at the same time as the Pap smear, as high-risk HPV causes nearly all cervical cancers.
  Colposcopy: This is a follow-up procedure performed if a Pap smear comes back abnormal. It is not a surgery. The provider uses a colposcope (a magnifying instrument) to look closely at the cervix, and a vinegar-like solution is applied to make abnormal cells visible.
• Cervical biopsy: This is a small tissue sample taken from the cervix during a colposcopy. This sample is sent to a lab to determine the severity of any abnormality (dysplasia). Patients may feel a "pinch" or mild cramping.
• Endometrial biopsy: This procedure takes a small sample of the lining of the uterus (the endometrium). It is often done in the office to investigate post-menopausal bleeding or other abnormal bleeding and can feel like a strong, brief cramp.
• IUD insertion/removal: This refers to the placement or removal of an intrauterine device (IUD) for long-term contraception.
• Nexplanon insertion/removal: This refers to the placement or removal of the small, rod-like contraceptive implant in the upper arm.

How often are screenings needed? 

Guidelines on how often gynecological screenings should be done have changed. For average-risk individuals, co-testing (Pap + HPV) is now recommended every 5 years, starting at age 25 or 30, or a Pap test alone every 3 years, starting at age 21.

Imaging procedures

A pelvic ultrasound is a non-invasive imaging test that uses sound waves to create pictures of the pelvic organs.

• Transabdominal: The ultrasound wand is moved across the lower abdomen (often requires a full bladder).
• Transvaginal: A small, thin wand is inserted into the vagina for a clearer, more detailed look at the uterus and ovaries. It is a key tool for diagnosing fibroids, ovarian cysts, and PCOS.

Surgical procedures (often minimally invasive)

These are key common gynecology procedures, many of which fall under the category of minimally invasive gynecology.

• Hysteroscopy: This is a procedure where a thin, lighted telescope (hysteroscope) is inserted through the vagina and cervix into the uterus. It allows the doctor to look inside the uterus to diagnose (e.g., find a fibroid or polyp) and treat (e.g., remove it) conditions without any external incisions.
• Laparoscopy: This is a minimally invasive surgical technique. The surgeon makes one or more small incisions (keyholes) in the abdomen and inserts a laparoscope (a camera) and specialized surgical instruments. It is used to diagnose and treat conditions like endometriosis (the only definitive way to diagnose it) and perform procedures such as hysterectomy (uterus removal), myomectomy (fibroid removal), and oophorectomy (ovary removal). This type of advanced surgery requires specialized skills and is a key part of modern gynecological practice, overlapping with general surgical care.
• LEEP (loop electrosurgical excision procedure): This is a common treatment for cervical dysplasia found on biopsy. A thin, low-voltage wire loop is used to cut away the small area of abnormal tissue from the cervix.

These procedures are central to preventive gynecology care and treatment, offering less pain, faster recovery, and better outcomes than the open surgeries of the past.

Preventive gynecology and health tips

Preventive gynecology care is the philosophy that it is easier to prevent a disease than to treat one. This proactive approach is a partnership between patient and provider, built on regular checkups, education, and healthy lifestyle choices. Here are essential gynecological health tips for every age.

Regular checkups and screenings

This is the most critical component. Do not wait for a problem to arise.

• Adolescents: Establish care between the ages of 13 and 15. This is the time to get the HPV vaccine.
• Adults (21-65): Maintain a regular schedule for Pap smears, HPV tests, and pelvic exams as recommended by your provider. Annual visits are still encouraged even if a Pap smear isn't needed, to discuss overall health, contraception, and perform a clinical breast exam.
• Post-menopause: Continue to see your gynecologist. Screenings for gynecologic cancers continue, and this is the time to focus on bone density, pelvic floor health, and any issues like post-menopausal bleeding (which should always be evaluated).

Vaccinations

• HPV vaccine: This is a vaccine that helps prevent cancer. The CDC recommends it for everyone ages 9-26. It can also be given to adults up to age 45 after a discussion with their provider. It protects against the HPV types most likely to cause cervical, vaginal, vulvar, and other cancers.
• Other vaccines: Stay up-to-date on annual flu shots, Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis), and Hepatitis B, which can be discussed during your GYN visit.

Safe sex and STI screening

• Use barrier methods (like condoms) consistently to reduce the risk of sexually transmitted infections.
• Get screened for STIs regularly, especially if you have new or multiple partners. Many STIs (like chlamydia) often have no symptoms but can cause serious long-term damage, like infertility.

Lifestyle and self-care

• Vaginal hygiene: The vagina is a self-cleaning organ. Avoid douching, which disrupts the natural balance of flora and can increase the risk of infection. Cleanse the external vulva with mild, unscented soap and water.
• Menstrual health: Track your menstrual cycle. Apps can make this easy. Understanding your "normal" helps you quickly identify when something is "off" (e.g., a new pattern of mid-cycle bleeding or a missed period).
• Diet and exercise: A balanced diet and regular physical activity can have a direct impact on gynecological health. They help regulate hormones, can improve symptoms of PCOS and PMS, and reduce cancer risk.
• Pelvic floor health: Kegel exercises can help strengthen the pelvic floor muscles, which support the uterus and bladder. This can prevent or improve issues with incontinence and prolapse.

Listen to your body

This is one of the most essential gynecology facts: You are the expert on your body. Do not dismiss persistent symptoms. 

Seek care if you experience:

• Pelvic pain that is new or severe
• Pain during intercourse
• Abnormal bleeding (between periods, after sex, heavier than usual)
• Any bleeding after menopause
• Unusual vaginal discharge, itching, or odor
• Sores, lumps, or rashes on the vulva

Preventive care is an act of self-advocacy. It means taking your symptoms seriously and engaging with a healthcare provider to maintain optimal health throughout your life.

Advancements and specialties in gynecology

The field of gynecology is not static; it is constantly evolving. 

Advancements in gynecology have dramatically improved diagnostics and treatments, while new gynecology specialties have emerged to provide expert care for complex conditions.

Recent innovations

Minimally invasive gynecologic surgery (MIGS)

This is perhaps the most significant advancement in recent decades. It has moved many procedures from large, open-abdomen surgeries to "keyhole" incisions.

• Advanced laparoscopy: This procedure enables the treatment of severe endometriosis, the removal of large fibroids, and hysterectomies, all through small incisions.
• Robotic-assisted surgery: Using systems like the da Vinci robot, surgeons control highly precise robotic arms. This allows for enhanced 3D vision and greater dexterity in complex procedures, such as delicate cancer staging or sacrocolpopexy (for pelvic prolapse).
• Hysteroscopic advancements: Modern hysteroscopes are so small that they can be used in the office to remove polyps and small fibroids, a procedure that once required general anesthesia in an operating room.

Genetics and personalized medicine

The understanding of genetic links to gynecologic cancers (like BRCA1/2 for ovarian cancer and Lynch syndrome for uterine cancer) has revolutionized screening. Patients with high-risk family histories can now undergo genetic counseling and testing, leading to personalized screening plans or prophylactic (preventive) surgeries.

Telemedicine in gynecology

The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the adoption of telehealth. Today, it's used effectively for contraception counseling, refilling prescriptions, discussing lab results, managing menopausal symptoms, and triaging problems, increasing access to care for many.

Newer medications

Advancements in pharmaceuticals have provided more options, such as new non-hormonal medications to treat heavy menstrual bleeding and hormone-receptor-targeting drugs to manage pain from endometriosis.

Subspecialties in gynecology

While many providers are generalist OB/GYNs, gynecology has several highly specialized, board-certified subspecialties:

• Gynecologic oncology: These physicians are surgeons who specialize in diagnosing and treating cancers of the female reproductive system (ovarian, uterine, cervical, vaginal, and vulvar). This field combines high-level surgical skills with expertise in chemotherapy and radiation, requiring a deep understanding of both gynecologic oncology and the principles of general oncology. They manage all aspects of cancer care for these specific cancers.
• Reproductive endocrinology and infertility (REI): REIs are experts in the body's hormonal systems as they relate to reproduction and infertility. They manage complex hormonal disorders, including PCOS and congenital adrenal hyperplasia, and are the specialists who perform procedures like in vitro fertilization (IVF). Their work is a highly specialized branch of endocrinology.
• Urogynecology (female pelvic medicine and reconstructive surgery - FPMRS): This specialty focuses on the pelvic floor. Urogynecologists diagnose and treat pelvic floor disorders, which include urinary incontinence, fecal incontinence, and pelvic organ prolapse. They are experts in both surgical and non-surgical management, including complex reconstructive procedures that share principles with plastic surgery.
• Pediatric and adolescent gynecology (PAG): These specialists have expertise in treating the specific gynecological needs of infants, children, and teenagers, from congenital abnormalities of the reproductive tract to managing early or delayed puberty and complex menstrual problems in teens.

These specialties ensure that patients with highly complex conditions receive care from a provider with advanced, focused training.

The roles in gynecology: Who works in this field?

A patient's gynecological care is rarely the work of a single person. Modern gynecology is a highly collaborative, team-based field. Understanding the role of gynecologists and the other professionals who support them is essential, especially for those working or aspiring to work in healthcare.

The gynecologist (MD/DO) is the physician leader of the team, but they work in concert with a wide array of skilled professionals.

Nurse practitioners, physician assistants, and nurses are often the front line of patient care, providing screenings, education, and management of many common conditions.

This collaborative model ensures patients receive comprehensive, timely, and specialized care. For example, a nurse practitioner might perform a routine well-woman exam, a certified nurse-midwife may provide both gynecological and obstetric care, and a medical assistant is essential for a smooth-running clinic. This team-based approach is the standard of modern gynecological practice.

Here is a breakdown of the common roles within the field of gynecology:

Gynecology in healthcare today

Today, gynecology in the healthcare system plays a role that transcends the individual clinic visit. The field is at the center of critical public health initiatives, policy debates, and a broader, more integrative approach to health.

Public health impact

Gynecology is a primary driver of major public health victories. National cervical cancer screening programs, built on the Pap smear and HPV testing, are a model of cancer prevention.

The promotion and widespread availability of the HPV vaccine is a public health triumph with the potential to virtually eliminate cervical cancer. Furthermore, gynecologists and related providers are on the front lines of controlling STI epidemics through routine screening, treatment, and patient education.

Policy and access

The field of gynecology is inextricably linked with health policy. Gynecological care is central to discussions of reproductive rights, including access to contraception, family planning services, and abortion.

Disparities in access to this care are a significant health equity issue. Individuals in rural areas, low-income communities, and minority populations often face greater barriers to receiving timely preventive screenings and treatment at a local healthcare facility, leading to higher rates of late-stage cancer diagnoses and other poor outcomes. Addressing these access gaps is a major focus of modern healthcare policy.

An integrative and interdisciplinary approach

Gynecology cannot exist in a silo. Gynecological health is deeply connected to overall health.

• PCOS is a prime example, as it significantly increases the risk of type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease. A gynecologist managing PCOS must work collaboratively with primary care providers and endocrinologists.
• Endometriosis is a systemic inflammatory disease that often requires a multi-disciplinary team, including a MIGS surgeon, a pelvic floor physical therapist, and a pain management specialist.
• Menopause management impacts cardiovascular health, bone health (osteoporosis), and mental health.

Modern gynecology champions an integrative model, viewing the patient holistically and coordinating care with other specialties to manage the wide-ranging impacts of gynecological and reproductive health on the entire body.

Frequently asked questions in gynecology

This section addresses common "People also ask" queries, consolidating key information from this guide.

What is the difference between a gynecologist and an OB/GYN?

This is the most crucial distinction.

• Gynecology is the medical specialty focused on the female reproductive system when not pregnant. It covers health and disease of the uterus, ovaries, cervix, and vagina, including screenings, surgery, and managing conditions from adolescence to menopause.
• Obstetrics (OB) is the specialty that deals with pregnancy, childbirth, and the immediate postpartum period.
• An OB/GYN is a physician who is trained and board-certified in both specialties. Most physicians in this field are OB/GYNs. However, some may choose to focus their practice only on gynecology (a "GYN-only" practice), especially later in their careers, to move away from the on-call demands of delivering babies.

When a patient is pregnant, they see an OB/GYN for their obstetric care. That care often involves a team of specialists, including labor & delivery nurses who are experts in childbirth.

In the immediate postpartum period, care is focused on the new parent and infant, a specialty known as mother-baby care. After the baby is born, it is cared for by pediatricians or specialists in neonatology if it requires intensive care. When that same patient is not pregnant, they see their OB/GYN for their gynecological care.

When should I start seeing a gynecologist?

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends the first visit between the ages of 13 and 15.

This first visit is usually just a discussion. It's a chance to talk about periods, cramps, the HPV vaccine, and build a trusting relationship. A pelvic exam is not typically performed unless there is a specific medical problem. The first Pap smear is recommended to begin at age 21.

Are gynecological exams painful?

A pelvic exam or Pap smear should not be painful. Patients often report feeling pressure or discomfort from the speculum or the bimanual exam. Pain, however, can be a sign of a problem, such as an infection, muscle tension (vaginismus), or a condition like endometriosis.

How can a patient advocate for themselves?

Speak up! You can say, "That hurts, can you please go slower?" or "I'm very nervous, can you tell me what you're doing first?" You can also ask for a smaller speculum. A good provider will stop and work with you.

How do I prepare for my first gynecology visit?

• Know the date of your last menstrual period (LMP).
• Be ready to discuss your personal and family medical history.
• Write down any questions you have in advance so you don't forget.
• It's okay to be nervous. Tell the provider it's your first exam.
• You do not need to wax, shave, or do any special "grooming."
• It's best to avoid douching, vaginal creams, or intercourse for 24-48 hours before a Pap smear, as this can interfere with the results.

How can I discuss sensitive issues?

Gynecologists discuss sensitive topics—sex, odor, discharge, pain—all day, every day. It is a normal part of their job. They are trained to be non-judgmental professionals.

The best approach is to be direct. "I'm embarrassed to ask this, but..." is a perfectly fine way to start. Remember that everything you say is confidential. Honest information is the only way for them to give you the best care.

What is covered in a typical gynecology appointment?

A "well-woman" visit typically includes:

1. History: Updating your medical/surgical/family history, discussing periods, sexual activity, contraception, and any new symptoms
2. Vitals: Checking your blood pressure, weight, and height
3. Physical exam: A clinical breast exam and a pelvic exam (external, speculum, and bimanual)
4. Screenings: Performing a Pap smear or HPV test if you are due
5. Counseling: Discussing test results, renewing prescriptions, and answering your questions about health, diet, exercise, and family planning

What vaccinations should I discuss with my gynecologist?

The main one is the HPV vaccine (Gardasil 9), which protects against cervical and other cancers. You should also ensure you are up-to-date on your annual flu shot and your Tdap booster (tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis).

Do men ever need gynecological care?

Cisgender men see a urologist for the health of their reproductive organs (prostate, testicles) and urinary system.

However, transgender men (assigned female at birth) who have a cervix, uterus, and/or ovaries absolutely still need routine gynecological care, including Pap smears, to screen for cancer.

Learn more about obstetrics

This guide has covered the comprehensive field of gynecology. As we've discussed, this is often paired with obstetrics—the specialty focused on pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum care.

To get the full picture of the OB/GYN specialty, learn more about the "OB" side of the practice.