What a gynecologist does
A gynecologist is a doctor who specialises in the female reproductive system — the uterus, ovaries, fallopian tubes, cervix and vagina — and in breast and hormonal health. Most gynecologists are also obstetricians (OB-GYN) who care for women during pregnancy and childbirth. Training is MBBS followed by an MD, MS or DNB in Obstetrics and Gynaecology.
Women can see a gynecologist at any age: for first periods and menstrual problems in adolescence, contraception and pre-pregnancy counselling in adulthood, antenatal care and delivery, infertility evaluation, and menopause care and screening later in life.
Common reasons to visit
- Irregular, painful, heavy or missed periods.
- PCOS (acne, excess hair growth, weight gain, irregular cycles).
- White discharge, itching or recurrent vaginal or urinary infections.
- Pelvic pain, fibroids, ovarian cysts or endometriosis.
- Trying to conceive without success for a year (or six months after 35).
- Confirming pregnancy and regular antenatal check-ups.
- Contraception advice and screening for cervical and breast cancer.
- Hot flushes, mood change and other menopause symptoms.
Tests and screening
Depending on the problem, a gynecologist may advise a pelvic ultrasound, a Pap smear and HPV test, a breast examination or mammography, and blood tests such as CBC, thyroid profile, prolactin, AMH, FSH, LH, vitamin D and blood sugar. In pregnancy, routine scans, blood group, glucose screening and infection tests are scheduled across the trimesters. Cervical screening is generally advised from the mid-twenties and mammography from around 40, or earlier with a family history.
Treatment approach
Many conditions are managed with medicines and lifestyle change, such as weight management and exercise for PCOS. Procedures can include IUD insertion, hysteroscopy, laparoscopy for cysts, fibroids or endometriosis, and in some cases hysterectomy. Delivery may be vaginal or by caesarean section depending on the clinical situation; discuss the options openly with your doctor.
Fees
Gynecologist consultation fees commonly range from about ₹500 to ₹1,500 and may vary by city and hospital. Antenatal packages, delivery and fertility treatments vary widely; ask for a written estimate that explains what is and is not included.
Choosing a gynecologist
- Check MD/MS/DNB qualification and registration.
- Look for a doctor you feel comfortable talking to; many women prefer a female doctor, which you can filter for.
- For high-risk pregnancy or infertility, choose someone with sub-specialty experience and a hospital with NICU and blood bank facilities.
Looking after your health
Track your periods, maintain a healthy weight, eat iron- and calcium-rich food, stay active, get vaccinated against HPV when advised and do not ignore abnormal bleeding. Online consultation suits many follow-ups and counselling visits, while pain, heavy bleeding or pregnancy complications need prompt in-person care. Compare gynecologists and book on Lab Dekho.
Trusted References
This guide is original content informed by recognised medical and public-health sources. For further reading:
Disclaimer: This guide is for general information and does not replace advice from a qualified doctor. Costs and fees are approximate and vary by provider. Institution names are given for orientation only; check current services and timings directly. In an emergency, call 108 or 112.