When to See an Obstetrician: Pregnancy, Fertility & Gynecological Care Guide

Obstetrician-gynecologists (OB-GYNs) specialize in women's reproductive health, pregnancy, and childbirth. Knowing when to seek their care ensures timely intervention and optimal outcomes.

Routine & Preventive Care

• Annual well-woman exams: Starting at age 21 or sexual activity onset
• Contraception counseling: Starting, changing, or stopping birth control
• STI screening: Based on risk factors and guidelines
• Cervical cancer screening: Pap/HPV testing per current guidelines
• Menopause management: Perimenopausal symptoms, hormone therapy

Pregnancy-Related Visits

• Preconception counseling: Before trying to conceive (optimize health, review medications, genetic screening)
• Prenatal care: As soon as pregnancy confirmed (typically 8-10 weeks)
• High-risk pregnancy factors: Age ≥35, multiples, chronic conditions (diabetes, hypertension, autoimmune), prior complications, BMI ≥30

Urgent Symptoms During Pregnancy

Contact your OB-GYN immediately for:

• Vaginal bleeding or fluid leakage
• Severe abdominal/pelvic pain or cramping
• Persistent severe headache or vision changes
• Sudden swelling (face, hands, feet)
• Decreased fetal movement (after 28 weeks)
• Fever >100.4°F (38°C)
• Signs of preterm labor (regular contractions before 37 weeks)

Gynecological Concerns

• Abnormal bleeding (between periods, postmenopausal, heavy)
• Pelvic pain not related to menstruation
• Unusual discharge, odor, itching
• Pain during intercourse
• Fertility concerns (trying 12 months if <35, 6 months if ≥35)
• Breast changes (lumps, skin changes, nipple discharge)

When in doubt, call your OB-GYN's office. Triage nurses can advise on urgency and scheduling.