What Does a Gynecologist Do?

Answer:
A gynecologist is a medical doctor who specializes in women's health. Gynecologists

first attend medical school, then complete a residency in gynecology.

Gynecologists diagnose, treat, and help prevent health problems related specifically to female anatomy, specifically hormonal disorders, breast cancer, cervical cancer, and any other problems with the female reproductive system. Another job responsibility of a gynecologist is to prescribe birth control. A gynecologist works with women to determine the best form of birth control for the individual woman.

It is recommended that adult women see a gynecologist every year in order to be screened for problems such as cervical cancer. During the yearly exam, the gynecologist performs a pelvic exam, examining the woman's cervix and vagina, and performing a Pap smear. The gynecologist also performs a breast exam, and checks to make sure the woman knows how to perform a monthly self-examination.