An obstetrician/gynecologist, or as they are commonly referred to as an OB GYN, are medical doctors who specialize in women's health. Health issues including pre-natal care, unexpected complications during pregnancy, during birth or during postpartum. Many are specialized in obstetrical and gynecological complications.

Obstetrics is the specialization in prenatal care of the baby while in the womb. It is also the specialized care of the mother during pregnancy and after birth. Doctors who specialize in gynecology are skilled in a woman's reproductive organs, and the general way this system works. Most doctors will choose both of these fields, thus OB/GYN. Being skilled in both these areas maximizes the services they can actually provide for their patients.

There are a number of services this specialized doctor can offer. Prenatal care is important for the healthy growth of the baby, while still inside the mother's womb. Labor is a very difficult process for any woman. A specialized physician can help aide the mother through child labor.

If you are a woman you generally know that there are certain exams you have to undergo on a yearly basis, including a pap smear and breast exams. If you are looking for an effective birth control plan tailored to your body, your OB/GYN is the person you want to see. In addition to preventing conception, if you are having a hard time conceiving but want too - this type of doctor may also help you with your fertility issues.

If you are on the brink of menopause, or going through it you may need a little help. There are measures that can be taken in order to curb the side effects of this phase. The previously mentioned are only a tiny view of what a woman's body may need help with. The list goes on, and each woman is different.

In order to become an obstetrician/gynecologist an individual has to graduate from an approved medical school, and then complete a four year residency program. Once the residency program is complete the student has to take an exam in order to become board certified in the United States.

There are both advantages and disadvantages when choosing an OB/GYN as your care giver. If you are experiencing a high risk pregnancy the doctor's specialized training can help you deal with it. If a cesarean birth is necessary a doctor with specialized training can help deal with any complications.

If you are not into modern medicine, and want an at home birth experience, this may be hard to arrange with an OB GYN. These are trained doctors that intervene with medical techniques in order to prevent and control any complications that may arise.