Obstetrics and Gynecology

Overview:

Obstetrics is a branch of medicine that focuses on care during pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period. A doctor who specializes in the care of obstetric conditions is called an Obstetrician.

Gynaecology is a branch of medicine that focuses on the health of the female reproductive system (vagina, Uterus, Ovaries and fallopian tubes) and breasts. A doctor who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of gynaecological conditions is called Gynaecologist.

Gynaecology and Obstetrics are two medical specialities, concerned with two different aspects of the female reproductive system.

Some of the obstetrics conditions are family planning, prenatal counselling, infertility, full range of pregnancy, delivery and postnatal care, including vaginal birth and caesarean deliveries, management of ectopic pregnancy and miscarriage, obstetrical emergencies, such as heavy bleeding and gynaecologic concerns which may affect or arise during pregnancy.

Some of the gynaecology conditions are menstrual irregularities, uterine problems, infections and irritation, family planning, breast pain, infections or changes, perimenopause and menopause issues.

The common signs and symptoms for which you should consult a gynaecologist include Bleeding between periods, Frequent need to urinate, burning sensation during urination, abnormal vaginal bleeding, Pain or pressure in your pelvis, itching, burning, swelling, redness in the vaginal area, increased vaginal discharge, pain or discomfort during intercourse and Lump in breast.

The Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology at BIMS HOSPITAL is regarded as best in class for offering hi-tech treatment and facilities with comprehensive care for women.

Pap Smear

Overview

• A Pap Smear or Pap Test is a vaginal exam that screens for cervical cancer. This is done by taking a swab to collect cervical cells to be examined for abnormal growth and other indications of precancerous /cancerous cells. It’s a simple procedure that takes approximately 5 minutes.

Pre-Procedure

• You must abstain from sex, avoid, douching, or using any vaginal medicines or spermicidal foams, creams or jellies for two days before having a Pap Smear, as these may wash away or obscure abnormal cells.
• Try not to schedule a Pap Smear during your menstrual period. It’s best to avoid this time of your cycle, if possible.

During the Procedure

• The procedure just takes 5 minutes and is absolutely painless.
• You will be given a gown to change into.
• You will be required to lie down on your back on an exam table with your knees bent.
• Doctor will gently insert an instrument called a speculum into your vagina.
• The speculum holds the walls of your vagina apart so that your doctor can easily see your cervix. Inserting the speculum may cause a sensation of pressure in your pelvic area.
• Then your doctor will take samples of your cervical cells using a soft brush and a flat scraping device called a spatula.
• Your doctor transfers the cell sample collected from your cervix into a container or onto a glass slide.

Post Procedure

• You can resume normal activities, post-Pap Smear.
• Reports will be available after 3 days. You will need to meet your Gynaecologist for reviewing the Pap Smear report.

IUCD Insertion

Overview:

• An IUCD or Intra-uterine Contraceptive Device or coil is a T-shaped implant impregnated with copper or hormones that is placed in the uterus (womb) to prevent pregnancy. This is a safe and effective non-permanent method of female contraception.

Pre-Procedure:

• Tests may be done to check for pregnancy or infection.
• IUCD procedure can be done on 4th / 5th / 6th day of menstrual cycle.

During the Procedure:

• The procedure will take approximately 15 to 20 minutes.
• You will be required to lie down comfortably on a procedure table with your knees bent, in an area where your privacy is respected throughout the procedure.
• Doctor will gently insert an instrument called a speculum into the vagina.
• The speculum holds the walls of the vagina apart so that your doctor can easily see the cervix. Inserting the speculum may cause a sensation of pressure in the pelvic area.
• The cervix is held with an instrument. This causes a pin prick like pain which is easily tolerable.
• The IUCD will then be put in the uterus. You may feel cramping or mild discomfort while the IUCD is being placed.
• Please note, IUCDs do not protect against sexually transmitted diseases.

Post Procedure:

• Medicine may be given if required, to ease discomfort.
• You may experience slight vaginal bleeding and mild cramping that should last only for a day or two as your body gets used to the IUCD.
• You may resume normal activities immediately after the procedure.
• Spotting between the menstrual cycles could occur, which is normal.
• You must review with your gynaecologist after your next menstrual cycle.
• Please contact your doctor / gynaecologist immediately, if recovery is not going as expected or if any of the following happen:
• Change in the length of the strings or you cannot feel the strings with your fingers.
• Heavy periods or periods that last longer than usual.
• Missed, late or unusually light periods.
• You or your partner have or are exposed to a sexually transmitted disease.
• Severe cramps, pain or tenderness in your belly.
• Pain or bleeding during intercourse.
• Unexplained fever or chills.
• Flu-like symptoms like muscle aches or tiredness.
• Unusual discharge from the vagina or sores on the vaginal area.
• Unexplained vaginal bleeding.
• Severe headaches.
• Rapid heartbeats.