When it comes to women’s health, two key specialists are often mentioned: gynecologists and obstetricians. While both are dedicated to female reproductive health, they focus on different stages and aspects of a woman’s life. Understanding the difference between a gynecologist and an obstetrician can help you choose the right doctor based on your health needs — whether you’re dealing with menstrual problems, fertility issues, or pregnancy care.
At Hera Clinic, Punawale, Dr. Sairandhri Kate-Shinde (MBBS, DNB, OBGY, FMAS) offers complete care in both gynecology and obstetrics. Let’s dive into the differences, roles, and when to consult each specialist.
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What is a Gynecologist?
A gynecologist is a medical doctor who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of conditions related to the female reproductive system, including:
- Uterus
- Ovaries
- Fallopian tubes
- Cervix
- Vagina
Gynecologists provide care from puberty through menopause and beyond, addressing both preventive and curative aspects of reproductive health.
🔹 Common Reasons to Visit a Gynecologist:
- Irregular or painful periods
- Heavy menstrual bleeding (menorrhagia)
- Contraceptive counseling and IUD insertion
- Treatment for vaginal infections and UTIs
- Pap smears and cervical cancer screening
- HPV vaccination
- Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) management
- Menopause symptom relief
- Pelvic pain, fibroids, or ovarian cysts
A gynecologist also provides fertility advice and STI testing, making them your go-to expert for everyday reproductive health concerns.
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What is an Obstetrician?
An obstetrician is a doctor who specializes in pregnancy care, childbirth, and postnatal care. They are trained to manage everything from routine prenatal check-ups to high-risk deliveries.
🔹 Key Responsibilities of an Obstetrician:
- Prenatal care and monitoring fetal development
- Ultrasound scans and genetic screening
- Labor and delivery management (normal and cesarean)
- Managing pregnancy complications (e.g., gestational diabetes, preeclampsia)
- Postpartum care — physical recovery, breastfeeding support, and emotional health
- Miscarriage and ectopic pregnancy management
If you’re trying to conceive, already pregnant, or in your post-delivery phase, an obstetrician is the right specialist for you.
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Gynecologist vs. Obstetrician – What’s the Key Difference?
While both focus on women’s reproductive health, their areas of expertise differ significantly:
| Aspect | Gynecologist | Obstetrician |
| Focus | General reproductive health | Pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum |
| Scope of Practice | Menstrual disorders, infections, contraception, menopause, PCOS | Prenatal care, delivery, C-sections, postpartum support |
| Patient Group | All women from adolescence to menopause | Primarily pregnant women and new mothers |
| Procedures | Pap smears, STI screening, laparoscopy, cyst removal | Ultrasounds, labor induction, delivery management, cesarean |
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Can a Doctor Be Both a Gynecologist and an Obstetrician?
Absolutely! A doctor trained in both fields is called an OB-GYN (Obstetrician-Gynecologist). An OB-GYN can provide complete reproductive care — from adolescence, family planning, and fertility support to pregnancy management and menopause care.
At Hera Clinic, Punawale, Dr. Sairandhri Kate-Shinde is an experienced OB-GYN offering personalized, compassionate care at every stage of a woman’s life.
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When Should You Visit a Gynecologist?
You should see a gynecologist if you are experiencing:
- Menstrual irregularities or painful periods
- Vaginal discharge or infections
- Unusual pelvic pain
- Difficulty in conceiving
- Need for birth control advice
- Concerns about menopause or hormonal imbalance
- Routine check-ups and cancer screenings
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When Should You Visit an Obstetrician?
Consult an obstetrician if you are:
- Planning to get pregnant or need preconception counseling
- Already pregnant and need prenatal check-ups
- Looking for expert delivery care (normal or cesarean)
- Facing complications during pregnancy
- Recovering post-delivery and need support
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Why Choosing the Right Specialist Matters
Choosing the right doctor ensures accurate diagnosis, effective treatment, and holistic support. Whether you need gynecological treatment or pregnancy care, having access to a skilled OB-GYN gives you confidence and continuity in your healthcare journey.
At Hera Clinic, we provide:
- Advanced diagnostics and hormonal testing
- Pregnancy scans and fetal monitoring
- Fertility planning and PCOS management
- Preventive screenings and menopause care
🏥 Visit Hera Clinic – Best OB-GYN in Punawale, Pune
- Dr. Sairandhri Kate-Shinde (MBBS, DNB, OBGY, FMAS)
- Consultant Obstetrician, Gynecologist & Infertility Specialist
📍 Shop No. 8, Ground Floor, Infinity Cube, C-Wing 44/1/2, Malwadi, Punawale – 411033
🌐 www.heraclinics.in
📧 shailysmily@gmail.com