What Is A Gynecologist? A Complete Guide

A gynecologist is “a physician who specializes in all aspects of reproductive health for people whose biologic sex is female,” says Raquel Dardik, M.D., a gynecologist with NYU Langone in New York City. “Gynecologists see people from the beginning of the reproductive years through menopause and beyond.”

She adds that a gynecologist “diagnoses, manages and treats all issues related to the female reproductive organs, such as the uterus, cervix and ovaries.”

While many gynecologists are also obstetricians, the two are not the same. An obstetrician specializes in all aspects of pregnancy, including the delivery of the baby, while a gynecologist specializes in a woman’s reproductive health.

Women should have their first gynecologist visit between the ages of 13 and 15, according to ACOG. It’s also worth noting transgender and gender-nonconforming individuals who have a cervix, uterus, one or both fallopian tubes and/or ovaries receive gynecological care, too.

Gynecologists provide a wide array of services, but according to Dr. Dardik, some of the most common types of issues a gynecologist manages are contraception, fertility, sexually transmitted infections (STIs), well woman exams and menopause.

For example, a visit to your gynecologist might be in order if you want to start taking birth control, if you have painful periods, or if you’re experiencing any other issue related to your reproductive health and well-being. Gynecologists specialize in diagnosing and treating reproductive health disorders like endometriosis, infertility, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), certain types of reproductive cancers and more.

You can expect routine exams as well, such as pelvic exams and pap tests (a type of test that checks for abnormal changes in the cervix that could lead to cancer). Gynecologists also answer any questions or address any concerns you might have.

It’s normal to feel nervous prior to a visit with your gynecologist, but knowing what to expect during an appointment can be helpful.

“Many appointments with a gynecologist are for preventative check-ups,” says Dr. Dardik. “At those check-ups, your gynecologist should obtain a detailed history.”

Your gynecologist will also ask you questions about your reproductive health and address any concerns you have, notes Dr. Dardik. “If it is indicated—either for preventative health or to evaluate a problem—a gynecologist may do an examination, which may include a breast examination, as well as an exam of the abdomen and female genital tract. They may also perform or order laboratory tests, such as a pap smear, or order radiologic tests, such as a mammogram or ultrasound.”

However, she notes, much of what you can expect at a visit depends on the type of visit you’re having and what the preventative health recommendations are for your age group. For example, you usually don’t need a pelvic exam at your first visit, according to ACOG, unless you’re dealing with issues like pain or abnormal bleeding.

Currently, ACOG recommends a pelvic exam only if you have symptoms (such as abnormal bleeding or pelvic pain) or if you have a medical history that requires it. The pelvic exam consists of three parts: an external exam of your genitals (such as your vulva), an examination of the vagina and cervix—in which a speculum is used to keep the walls of your vagina open—and an examination of your internal organs (like your ovaries and fallopian tubes) by inserting a gloved hand.

The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) currently recommends cervical cancer screenings every three years for women between the ages of 21 and 29, which can be performed by your gynecologist. For women over the age of 30, a human papilloma virus (HPV) test should also be included every five years.

For the most part, preventative gynecologist visits are covered by insurance. “Most insurances that cover preventative health cover gynecologic examinations,” says Dr. Dardik. “However, it’s best to check with your individual insurance for specific coverage, as there can be variation among insurance companies.”

If your gynecologist requests additional screenings after a preventative exam, those screenings may only be covered partially by your insurance (or not at all), so reach out to your health care provider and insurance company to determine exactly what you can expect to pay ahead of additional testing.

There are a handful of ways to find a gynecologist who best suits your needs. “The best way to find a good gynecologist is to ask your primary physician for a recommendation,” says Dr. Dardik.

ACOG is an excellent resource for finding a gynecologist, too. You can search for one by name and location on the association’s website and refine your search for medical subspecialties, clinical interests and language.

Other options for finding a gynecologist include word of mouth and online portals like Zocdoc that allow you to filter gynecologists by insurance provider.

Remember: A gynecologist is one of the most important doctors a person will have throughout their life, so try to find someone with whom you feel really comfortable and who answers your questions and addresses your concerns adequately.