Gynaecology
| System | Female reproductive system |
|---|---|
| Subdivisions | Gynaecological oncology, maternal and fetal medicine, reproductive medicine and urogynaecology |
| Significant diseases | Gynaecological cancers, infertility, dysmenorrhea, polycystic ovary syndrome, endometriosis |
| Significant tests | Hysteroscopy, laparoscopy, hormone levels, pap smear, HPV |
| Specialist | Gynaecologist |
Gynaecology or gynecology (see American and British English spelling differences) is the area of medicine concerned with conditions affecting the female reproductive system. It is sometimes combined with the field of obstetrics, which focuses on pregnancy and childbirth, thereby forming the combined area of obstetrics and gynaecology (OB-GYN).[1]
Gynaecology encompasses preventative care, sexual health and diagnosing and treating health issues arising from the female reproduction system, such as the uterus, vagina, cervix, fallopian tubes, ovaries, and breasts; subspecialties include family planning; minimally invasive surgery; paediatric and adolescent gynaecology; and pelvic medicine and reconstructive surgery.
While gynaecology has traditionally centered on women, it increasingly encompasses anyone with female organs,[2] including transgender, intersex, and nonbinary individuals; however, many men face accessibility issues due to stigma, bias, and systemic exclusion in healthcare.[3]
- ^ "Obstetrics and gynecology". www.cancer.gov. 2 February 2011. Retrieved 28 February 2025.
- ^ Ratini, Melinda (ed.). "What Is a Gynecologist?". WebMD. Retrieved 7 June 2025.
- ^ "Ethics in obstetric and gynaecologic care for transgender and non-binary individuals | Figo". www.figo.org. 14 November 2024. Retrieved 18 August 2025.