Most gynecologists have experience in general medicine as well as surgery of the female genital tract.
Many gynecologists are also obstetricians who care for pregnant women and deliver their babies.
Many gynecologists' offices have skilled nurse practitioners who will administer routine care under the guidance of a gynecologist. Routine care includes an annual pap smear, birth control information , and a physical and pelvic exam. A woman or girl should also see a gynecologist if she is having pelvic pain, abnormal vaginal or menstrual bleeding, abnormal vaginal discharge or other symptoms pertaining to the female genitalia. A pap smear is a sampling of cells taken from the cervix. It is a very important test to screen for the presence of cancer.