Ob/Gyns: Care for puberty, pregnancy, menopause and beyond.

Obstetrician/Gynecologists (Ob/Gyns) are much more than pregnancy doctors. Because reproductive and other women’s health issues don’t just occur in the 20s and 30s, Ob/Gyns care for women from adolescence to menopause and beyond.

Many younger women don’t have a primary care physician, such as an internist or family doctor. The only doctor they see regularly is their Ob/Gyn, who can also provide basic primary care.

“Ob/Gyns care for a woman’s sexual health needs and provide pelvic and breast exams and cancer screenings. We are also trained to check for heart, lung and general health issues,” explains Jose Garcia, MD, Ob/Gyn at Cleveland Clinic Lorain Family Health and Surgery Center and Elyria Family Health and Surgery Center.

The main difference is that primary care physicians focus on general disease management and prevention, while Ob/Gyns focus on women’s health issues. For example, Ob/Gyns typically treat menstruation problems, abnormal uterine bleeding and fertility issues, as well as sexual issues and bodily concerns.

“Patients are often too shy to talk with their primary care physician about certain gynecological issues,” says Dr. Garcia. “Whether it’s an abnormal bump or a sexual problem, it’s important to make our patients comfortable while we guide them down the health care road.”

As women age, conditions such as high blood pressure or acid reflux may develop. “These types of issues are best suited for a primary care physician,” says Dr. Garcia. “It’s beneficial for a woman to have a primary doctor and an Ob/Gyn who can work together to care for all of her health needs.”

According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, most women should see an Ob/Gyn once a year from their early 20s to their mid-60s. Regular exams may include a Pap test to screen for cervical cancer and a mammogram to screen for breast cancer. To make an appointment with Dr. Garcia at Lorain Family Health and Surgery Canter or Elyria Family Health and Surgery Center call 440.204.7400. Cleveland Clinic offers same-day appointments.