Choosing the right women’s health provider can feel confusing when titles sound so similar. You may hear OB-GYN, OB, and gynecologist used interchangeably, yet they are not the same. Understanding the difference helps you schedule the right visit, use your insurance wisely, and feel confident about your care at every life stage.
OB-GYN vs. Gynecologist: What Each Title Means
OB-GYN
An OB-GYN is a physician trained in both obstetrics and gynecology.
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Obstetrics includes pregnancy care, labor, delivery, and postpartum support.
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Gynecology covers non-pregnancy reproductive health, routine screening, menstrual concerns, contraception, pelvic pain, fibroids, and menopause.
OB-GYNs complete residency training in both specialties and maintain board certification across the full spectrum.
Gynecologist
A gynecologist (GYN) focuses exclusively on non-pregnancy reproductive health. They manage:
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Well-woman exams
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Cervical cancer screening
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Contraception counseling
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STI testing
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Irregular or heavy bleeding
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Chronic pelvic pain
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Fibroids
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Endometriosis
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Menopause
Gynecologists do not provide prenatal care or deliver babies.
In short:
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OB-GYN = pregnancy care + gynecology
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GYN = gynecology only
Should You See an OB-GYN or a Gynecologist?
Use your current needs as your guide.
See an OB-GYN if:
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You are pregnant or think you might be
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You want pregnancy confirmation or prenatal planning
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You have a high-risk pregnancy or need a C-section
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You want continuity from preconception through delivery and postpartum
See a Gynecologist if:
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You need contraception counseling
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You have irregular or painful periods
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You have pelvic pain, fibroids, or suspected endometriosis
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You need STI testing
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You need menopause or perimenopause care
Because OB-GYNs can also provide full gynecologic care, many patients choose an OB-GYN for long-term continuity.
Common Scenarios and the Right Type of Visit
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Preconception: OB-GYN
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Pregnancy confirmation: OB-GYN
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Contraception: OB-GYN or GYN
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Irregular bleeding or painful periods: Either provider
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Fibroid symptoms: Either provider
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Menopause: GYN, or an OB-GYN with menopause expertise
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Postpartum concerns: OB-GYN
Do You Need a Primary Care Doctor if You Have an OB-GYN?
Yes.
An OB-GYN specializes in reproductive and pregnancy-related health. A primary care physician manages:
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Blood pressure, cholesterol, and diabetes screening
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Thyroid, respiratory, and digestive concerns
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Vaccinations
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General wellness and preventive care
Most women benefit from seeing both providers annually.
When Should a Woman First See a Gynecologist?
Most experts recommend a first GYN visit between ages 13 and 15. These early visits are often conversational—covering periods, pelvic pain, acne, or sexual health. A pelvic exam is not always required.
Cervical cancer screening typically begins at age 21 unless earlier testing is recommended.
When Should a Woman Stop Seeing a Gynecologist?
There is no specific age to stop gynecologic care. Screening schedules change with age, but reproductive and pelvic health needs continue into menopause and beyond.
Ongoing care supports:
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Postmenopausal bleeding
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Pelvic pressure
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Urinary changes
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Vaginal dryness
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Sexual wellness
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Bone health
Work with your clinician to tailor visit frequency to your needs.
How Walnut Creek OB/GYN Fits Into Your Care
Walnut Creek OB/GYN offers comprehensive obstetric and gynecologic care under one roof. Our team includes board-certified physicians, physician assistants, and nurse practitioners who coordinate care at every life stage.
As Medical Director of OB/GYN at John Muir Walnut Creek, Dr. Timothy A. Leach ensures care that prioritizes patient comfort, evidence-based decisions, and up-to-date technology.
Obstetrics
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Full prenatal care
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Delivery planning
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Postpartum support
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C-sections when needed, with detailed counseling
Gynecology
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Routine exams, Pap and HPV testing
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STI testing
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Contraception counseling
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Evaluation of irregular cycles, fibroids, pelvic pain
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Minimally invasive procedures
Menopause Care
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Symptom assessment
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Hormone and non-hormone treatment options
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Guidance based on current clinical recommendations
Our practice accepts most major insurance plans. Many patients do not need a referral for routine gynecology or prenatal care; some specialty procedures may require one depending on your plan. Our team is happy to help you confirm coverage.
Coordinated Care Across Life Stages
Teens & Early 20s
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Period education
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Acne or hair growth concerns
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Contraception
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Safe sex counseling
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First Pap or HPV test when due
Family-Building Years
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Preconception counseling
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Fertility discussions
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Pregnancy and delivery care
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Postpartum healing and support
Midlife & Beyond
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Perimenopause and irregular cycles
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Hot flashes, sleep changes
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Bone health support
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Sexual wellness
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Long-term screenings
If surgery or hospital care is needed, we coordinate closely with hospital services so your care stays connected and consistent.
Insurance and Referrals Made Simple
Coverage varies by plan, but:
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Preventive care (annual exams, screening tests) is often fully covered
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Diagnostic visits, imaging, or procedures may involve deductibles or coinsurance
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Referrals are rarely needed for routine care, though some HMOs require them for specialty procedures
Our administrative team can help you understand costs before your appointment.
When in Doubt, Start with a Conversation
If you are pregnant, think you might be, or want preconception guidance—schedule with an OB-GYN.
For non-pregnancy concerns such as contraception, irregular bleeding, fibroids, menopause, or STI testing—a gynecology visit is a great first step.
At Walnut Creek OB/GYN, you do not have to choose between comprehensive obstetrics and expert gynecology—you can have both in a setting that values compassion, clarity, and comfort.
If you’re looking for an OB-GYN in Walnut Creek, explore our team and services or request an appointment to get the guidance you need today.