DMC Huron Valley-Sinai Hospital OB/GYN

Obstetrics and gynecology, commonly referred to as OB/GYN, is a medical field dedicated to women’s healthcare from adolescence through later adulthood. This specialty addresses pregnancy and childbirth, disorders of the female reproductive system, cancer care and surgical treatment using minimally invasive techniques. OB/GYNs also help manage ongoing and long‑term health concerns, including menopause symptoms, hormone management, contraception options and fertility evaluation and treatment.

Obstetricians are doctors who concentrate on pregnancy‑related care. They support patients before conception, throughout pregnancy and after delivery, providing prenatal monitoring, managing labor and delivery and offering postpartum follow‑up. When medically necessary, they perform procedures such as cesarean delivery to help ensure the safety of both mother and baby.

Gynecologists focus on reproductive and gynecologic health across all ages. Their services include preventive care and screening, coordination of mammograms, fertility assessment and treatment and surgical procedures such as hysterectomy or ovarian cyst removal.

OB/GYN care is supported by four primary subspecialties:

• Gynecologic oncology – Diagnosis and treatment of cancers affecting the uterus, cervix, ovaries and vulva
• Reproductive endocrinology and infertility – Specialized fertility services, including IVF, embryo transfer and related therapies
• Maternal-fetal medicine – Advanced care for high‑risk pregnancies and complex conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, kidney disease and premature labor
• Female pelvic medicine and reconstructive surgery (urogynecology) – Care for pelvic floor conditions, including pelvic organ prolapse and urinary incontinence

A well‑woman exam, sometimes called an annual well‑woman visit, is a preventive healthcare appointment focused on supporting overall wellness. Rather than addressing illness alone, this visit emphasizes prevention, healthy lifestyle guidance and age‑appropriate screenings tailored to women’s specific health needs. Compared with a general physical, a well‑woman exam takes a long‑term view of women’s health.

During the appointment, your provider reviews personal medical history, gynecologic history and family health information. This discussion helps determine which exams or screenings, such as breast or pelvic exams, are appropriate and supports collaborative decision‑making. Conversations may also include reproductive health and plans to help ensure care recommendations align with your goals. Well-woman exams remain important throughout life, including during perimenopause and post menopause.

Each pregnancy follows a unique course. It’s recommended to schedule your first obstetrician visit within the first 12 weeks of pregnancy or as soon as pregnancy is confirmed. Those with high‑risk pregnancies may require additional visits and specialized testing.

Prompt prenatal care is essential. Contact your obstetrician immediately if you experience:

• Vaginal bleeding
• Sudden or severe swelling of the face or hands
• Severe or persistent headaches
• Ongoing nausea or vomiting
• Dizziness or changes in vision
• Intense abdominal pain or cramping
• Fever or chills
• Changes in fetal movement
• Pain or burning during urination or decreased urine output
• Illness, infection or significant emotional or physical stress
• Rupture of membranes (water breaking)
• Reduced or absent fetal movement later in pregnancy
• Any symptom that causes concern

You may also need an obstetrician's care if:

• You take medications for chronic conditions such as diabetes, thyroid disorders, seizures, depression or high blood pressure
• You are not currently receiving prenatal care
• Pregnancy symptoms require medication to manage
• You believe you’ve been exposed to an STI, harmful chemicals, radiation or environmental hazards

Girls are generally encouraged to have an initial OB/GYN visit between the ages of 13 and 15. These routine appointments support preventive care, education and early identification of potential concerns.

Consider scheduling a visit with a gynecologist if you notice symptoms such as pelvic discomfort, irregular or missed periods or abnormal bleeding. Early evaluation can reduce the risk of more serious complications.

From routine preventive screenings to advanced procedures, such as laparoscopy or hysterectomy, gynecologists offer comprehensive care that supports women’s reproductive and overall health throughout every phase of life.