The word obstetrics stems from the Latin 'obstare' meaning literally 'to stand in front of', or someone who stands in front of the baby.
Gynecology, the study of women stems from the Greek word 'gynaik' meaning woman. An obstetrician-gynecologist (ob-gyn) is a fully qualified doctor who has received additional specialized training after medical school. This training focuses on the female reproductive system (gynecology) and the care of pregnant women and childbirth (obstetrics).
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Most doctors who qualify as ob-gyns choose to specialize either in obstetrics or gynecology. Just because you are pregnant does not mean you need to see an obstetrician. Technically women under the age of thirty five, who are expecting a low risk pregnancy with no complications can receive prenatal care from their primary care physician. Complications that will require the care of an obstetrician include a history of difficult pregnancies, a previous miscarriage or if you are carrying multiple babies.
Obstetrics is considered high-risk, and malpractice insurance premiums reflect those risks. If your primary care giver is a gynecologist they may not provide all of your prenatal care and you should expect to be referred to an obstetrician at some point during your pregnancy.
Many gynecologists like to build a long term relationship with their clients and find the high risk environment of obstetrics very stressful. As their practices mature, with patients no longer having children, the need for obstetrical work, and the high insurance premiums obstetricians require, is reduced.
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If your primary care giver is able to provide prenatal care you will be able to continue your pregnancy without finding a new doctor. If you need to find an obstetrician you may want to start by asking friends who have recently had babies for their recommendations. Another good source is a local pediatrician or labor delivery nurse, but your best option may be with your gynecologist. Since your gynecologist will work closely with many obstetricians a referral from your primary care physician can lead you to an obstetrician that will share similar opinions and experiences as your gynecologist, and may even be in the same practice.
There are some complications during pregnancy that require the attention of a specialist called a consultant obstetrician. These issues may include gestational diabetes, preeclampsia or some other complication. Your doctor will determine whether there are any issues severe enough to warrant the attention of a consultant obstetrician.
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