OBSTETRIC-GYNECOLOGY SERVICES ARE SAFER THAN MIDWIFERY SERVICES

OBSTETRIC-GYNECOLOGY SERVICES ARE SAFER THAN MIDWIFERY SERVICES

OBSTETRIC-GYNECOLOGY SERVICES ARE SAFER THAN MIDWIFERY SERVICES

Introduction

Gynecology is branch of medicine concerning the physiology and pathology of the female reproductive system in the non pregnant state. A doctor who specializes in the practice of gynecology is called a gynecologist. Gynecologists have special education, training, and skills, both medical and surgical, to treat problems that are associated with reproductive and sexual function in women.

Most vaginal infections are characterized by vaginal itching or burning, an unusual odor or excessive discharge. To diagnose such infections, doctors must examine the patient and have laboratory tests performed. Among the most common gynecological infections are vaginitis and yeast infections such as thrush (trichomoniasis), caused by trichomonas vaginalis. In vaginitis, the discharge is yellow to grey-green and can have a foul odor. (Bowers, 2006)

Itching occurs, along with pain on urination and during intercourse. Vaginitis is treated with oral antibiotics, sulpha-based creams and suppositories, and antibacterial douches. In yeast infections, the discharge is thick and white, and severe itching sometimes occurs; they are treated with an antibiotic vaginal cream or suppositories. In trichomoniasis, the discharge is thin and greenish-white or grey, itching occurs, and redness, a foul odor, and pain are present; the most effective treatment is an oral antibiotic.

Endometriosis is a serious condition in which the lining of the uterus (endometrium) forms outside the organ during each menstrual cycle. Endometrium may form on all the pelvic organs and causes pain and heavy menstrual bleeding, and adhesions may form on the organs affected. Treatment is often by surgery and, in the reproductive years, by drugs such as the pill.

Cystitis is an infection of the bladder characterized by the urge to urinate frequently, burning during urination, cramp and pain in the lower abdomen, and urine that has an unusual color or is cloudy or bloody. More common in women than in men, it is caused by bacteria and, when it does occur, is often linked to intercourse. It is cured by antibiotics. (Bynum, 2005)

Obstetrics

Obstetrics is branch of medicine concerning pregnancy, labor, and the period immediately following childbirth. It also involves the psychological and social aspects of childbearing.

Obstetrics has not always been so broadly defined. Until recently, it involved only the mechanics of childbirth, and early practitioners did not have medical training. As early as 1303, the term midwife was used for women who assisted in home deliveries, and eventually the term midwifery evolved in reference to their practice. Improvements in the practice of obstetrics can be measured by the decline in maternal and infant death rates. Historically these rates have been extremely high. In the past few decades, however, (Bynum, 2005) increasing attention has been paid to nutrition and hygiene. Medical care has also improved due to the discovery of antibiotics, which combat infection, the use of blood transfusions to treat hemorrhage, and the development of surgical techniques needed in childbirths threatening the life of either the mother or ...