Top 25 OB-GYNs Across the US
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What is an OB-GYN?
Learn about this specialty, training requirements, and when to schedule a visit.
An obstetrician-gynecologist (OB-GYN) is a physician who specializes in women's reproductive health, pregnancy, and childbirth. These medical specialists provide comprehensive care throughout a woman's life, from adolescence through menopause and beyond, managing both routine preventive care and complex medical and surgical conditions affecting the female reproductive system.
Training and Qualifications
Becoming an ob-gyn requires extensive education and training:
- 4 years of medical school to earn an MD or DO degree
- 4 years of residency training in Obstetrics and Gynecology in an ACGME-accredited program
- Extensive surgical training including cesarean sections, hysterectomies, and minimally invasive procedures
- Required completion of the Surgical Skills Program including Fundamentals of Laparoscopic Surgery (FLS) or Essentials in Minimally Invasive Gynecology (EMIGS) certification
- Total of 8 years of specialized training beyond a bachelor's degree
Board Certification: American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology (ABOG). Initial certification requires passing written and oral examinations within 7 years of completing residency. As of 2025, the Maintenance of Certification (MOC) program has been renamed Continuing Certification (CC), requiring ongoing learning activities, quality improvement projects, and periodic assessments to maintain board certification.
When Should You See an OB-GYN?
You should consider seeing an ob-gyn if:
- You need routine preventive care including annual exams, Pap smears, and breast exams
- You're planning to become pregnant or need preconception counseling
- You're pregnant and need prenatal care and delivery management
- You experience irregular, heavy, or painful menstrual periods
- You have pelvic pain, unusual bleeding, or discharge
- You're experiencing symptoms of menopause including hot flashes or night sweats
- You need contraception counseling or family planning services
- You have concerns about infertility or difficulty conceiving
- You need screening or treatment for sexually transmitted infections
- You have a gynecologic condition like endometriosis, fibroids, or PCOS
Key Facts
Common Conditions Treated
OB-GYNs are trained to diagnose and treat a wide range of conditions. Here are some of the most common conditions that ob-gyns help patients manage.
Pregnancy and Prenatal Care
Comprehensive medical care during pregnancy to monitor the health of both mother and baby, from conception through delivery and postpartum recovery. Prenatal care includes regular check-ups, screening tests, ultrasounds, and management of any complications that arise.
Key Symptoms
Treatment Approach
OB-GYNs provide prenatal visits to monitor fetal development, perform ultrasounds and genetic screening, manage pregnancy complications like gestational diabetes or preeclampsia, counsel on nutrition and lifestyle, develop birth plans, deliver babies via vaginal delivery or cesarean section, and provide postpartum care for mother and newborn.
Menstrual Disorders
Abnormalities in the menstrual cycle including irregular periods, heavy bleeding (menorrhagia), painful periods (dysmenorrhea), or absence of periods (amenorrhea). These conditions can significantly impact quality of life and may indicate underlying health issues.
Key Symptoms
Treatment Approach
OB-GYNs diagnose the underlying cause through physical exams, blood tests, ultrasounds, and sometimes endometrial biopsy. Treatment options include hormonal birth control, IUDs, medications to reduce bleeding, surgical procedures like endometrial ablation or hysterectomy, and management of underlying conditions like thyroid disorders or bleeding disorders.
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
A common hormonal disorder affecting women of reproductive age, characterized by irregular periods, excess androgen levels, and polycystic ovaries. PCOS is a leading cause of infertility and is associated with insulin resistance, diabetes, and cardiovascular risk.
Key Symptoms
Treatment Approach
OB-GYNs diagnose PCOS through clinical evaluation, hormone testing, and pelvic ultrasound. Treatment includes lifestyle modifications for weight management, hormonal birth control to regulate periods and reduce androgen symptoms, metformin for insulin resistance, fertility treatments when pregnancy is desired, and medications like spironolactone for excess hair growth. Long-term management focuses on reducing diabetes and cardiovascular risk.
Endometriosis
A chronic condition where tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus, causing inflammation, scarring, and severe pain. Endometriosis affects approximately 10% of women of reproductive age and is a common cause of infertility.
Key Symptoms
Treatment Approach
OB-GYNs diagnose endometriosis through pelvic exam, ultrasound or MRI imaging, and sometimes laparoscopic surgery for definitive diagnosis. Treatment options include pain medications, hormonal therapies (birth control pills, IUDs, GnRH agonists) to suppress endometrial growth, laparoscopic surgery to remove endometrial tissue and adhesions, and fertility treatments for those trying to conceive. Management is individualized based on symptom severity and reproductive goals.
Uterine Fibroids
Noncancerous growths in the uterus that are extremely common, affecting up to 70-80% of women by age 50. While many fibroids cause no symptoms, larger or multiple fibroids can cause significant bleeding, pain, and pressure symptoms.
Key Symptoms
Treatment Approach
OB-GYNs diagnose fibroids through pelvic examination and imaging (ultrasound or MRI). Treatment depends on symptoms, size, location, and desire for future pregnancy. Options include watchful waiting for asymptomatic fibroids, medications to control bleeding and shrink fibroids, minimally invasive procedures like uterine artery embolization or focused ultrasound, myomectomy (surgical removal of fibroids), and hysterectomy for severe cases.
Menopause Management
The natural transition marking the end of reproductive years, typically occurring between ages 45-55 when periods stop permanently. Perimenopause (the transition period) and menopause can cause significant symptoms affecting quality of life and long-term health.
Key Symptoms
Treatment Approach
OB-GYNs provide comprehensive menopause care including hormone level testing, counseling on treatment options, prescription of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) when appropriate, non-hormonal medications for symptom relief, vaginal estrogen for genitourinary symptoms, bone density screening and osteoporosis prevention, cardiovascular risk assessment, and guidance on lifestyle modifications to manage symptoms and maintain health.
Pelvic Pain
Chronic or acute pain in the lower abdomen and pelvic region that can have numerous causes including gynecologic, gastrointestinal, urologic, or musculoskeletal origins. Chronic pelvic pain lasting six months or longer affects approximately 15% of women.
Key Symptoms
Treatment Approach
OB-GYNs conduct thorough evaluations including detailed history, pelvic examination, and diagnostic testing (ultrasound, CT, MRI, or laparoscopy) to identify causes such as endometriosis, adhesions, ovarian cysts, fibroids, or pelvic inflammatory disease. Treatment is tailored to the underlying cause and may include medications, physical therapy, hormonal treatments, nerve blocks, or surgical intervention. A multidisciplinary approach often provides the best outcomes.
Cervical Cancer Screening and Prevention
Regular screening and prevention of cervical cancer through Pap smears, HPV testing, and HPV vaccination. Cervical cancer is highly preventable with appropriate screening, which can detect precancerous changes before cancer develops.
Key Symptoms
Treatment Approach
OB-GYNs perform routine Pap smears and HPV tests according to screening guidelines (typically starting at age 21), administer HPV vaccines to prevent infection with cancer-causing strains, provide colposcopy and cervical biopsies for abnormal results, treat precancerous lesions with procedures like LEEP or cryotherapy, and coordinate care with gynecologic oncologists for confirmed cancer cases. Regular screening has dramatically reduced cervical cancer rates.
Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI) Screening and Treatment
Testing, diagnosis, and treatment of sexually transmitted infections including chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, herpes, HPV, HIV, and others. Many STIs are asymptomatic but can cause serious long-term health consequences if untreated, including infertility and chronic pain.
Key Symptoms
Treatment Approach
OB-GYNs provide confidential STI screening through urine tests, blood tests, and vaginal swabs, prescribe appropriate antibiotic or antiviral treatments, offer counseling on safe sex practices and partner notification, administer preventive treatments like HPV and hepatitis B vaccines, screen for and manage complications like pelvic inflammatory disease, and provide ongoing monitoring for chronic infections like herpes or HIV.
Infertility
Difficulty conceiving after one year of regular unprotected intercourse (or six months if over age 35). Infertility affects approximately 10-15% of couples and can result from female factors, male factors, or a combination of both.
Key Symptoms
Treatment Approach
OB-GYNs perform initial infertility evaluations including hormone testing, ovarian reserve assessment, imaging studies, hysterosalpingography to check fallopian tube patency, and semen analysis for male partners. Treatment may include ovulation induction medications, intrauterine insemination (IUI), surgical correction of anatomic problems like fibroids or endometriosis, and referral to reproductive endocrinologists for advanced treatments like in vitro fertilization (IVF) when needed.
Important Note
This list represents common conditions but is not exhaustive. OB-GYNs treat many other conditions related to their specialty. If you're experiencing symptoms or have concerns, consult with a qualified ob-gyn for a proper evaluation.
What to Expect During Your Visit
Understanding what happens during your appointment can help you feel more prepared. Here's what you can typically expect when visiting an ob-gyn.
Your First Visit
- Comprehensive medical history including menstrual history, sexual history, contraception, pregnancies, and family history
- Discussion of current symptoms, concerns, and health goals
- Review of medications, allergies, previous surgeries, and screening history
- Complete physical examination including breast exam and pelvic exam (unless you're a new adolescent patient)
- Pap smear and HPV testing if due for cervical cancer screening
- Discussion of contraception options, family planning, or prenatal care if pregnant
- Ordering of any necessary lab work, imaging, or additional tests
- First visit typically lasts 30-60 minutes depending on the reason for visit
Diagnosis & Testing
- Pelvic examination: Visual and manual examination of external and internal reproductive organs
- Pap smear and HPV testing: Cervical cancer screening collecting cells from the cervix
- Transvaginal or abdominal ultrasound: Imaging to visualize uterus, ovaries, and pregnancy
- Blood tests: Hormone levels, pregnancy testing, infection screening, or general health markers
- STI testing: Urine tests, blood tests, or vaginal swabs for sexually transmitted infections
- Endometrial biopsy: Tissue sample from uterine lining to evaluate abnormal bleeding
- Hysteroscopy: Camera inserted through cervix to visualize inside the uterus
- Laparoscopy: Minimally invasive surgery with camera to diagnose conditions like endometriosis
- Mammography or breast ultrasound: Breast cancer screening or evaluation of breast concerns
- Genetic testing: Screening for hereditary cancer syndromes or prenatal genetic conditions
Treatment Options
- Preventive care including vaccinations (HPV, Tdap during pregnancy, flu shots)
- Contraception counseling and provision (pills, IUDs, implants, injections)
- Hormonal treatments for menstrual disorders, PCOS, endometriosis, or menopause
- Medications for infections, pain management, or chronic conditions
- Prenatal care including regular monitoring, ultrasounds, and screening tests throughout pregnancy
- Minimally invasive procedures (colposcopy, endometrial ablation, IUD insertion/removal)
- Office-based surgeries (biopsies, removal of lesions or polyps)
- Inpatient surgeries (laparoscopy, hysterectomy, myomectomy, cesarean delivery)
- Labor and delivery management including vaginal delivery and cesarean sections
- Postpartum care for mother and newborn
- Lifestyle counseling on nutrition, exercise, sexual health, and disease prevention
Tip for Your Visit
Bring a list of current medications, previous test results, and questions you want to ask. Writing down your symptoms—when they occur and what affects them—helps your ob-gyn provide accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.
How to Choose the Right OB-GYN
Finding the right healthcare provider is important for your health and peace of mind. Here are key factors to consider when selecting an ob-gyn.
Credentials to Verify
- Board certified by the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology (ABOG)
- Completed 4-year ACGME-accredited residency in Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Participating in Continuing Certification (formerly MOC) to maintain board certification
- Active, unrestricted medical license in your state
- Member of professional organizations like ACOG (American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists)
- Surgical Skills Program certification (FLS or EMIGS) demonstrating advanced surgical competency
- Fellowship training if you need subspecialty care (maternal-fetal medicine, gynecologic oncology, etc.)
Important Considerations
- Location and accessibility of office and hospital where they have delivery privileges
- Accepts your insurance plan
- Availability of appointments including evening or weekend hours
- Hospital affiliations and quality ratings of birthing facilities
- Positive patient reviews and recommendations from trusted sources
- Communication style and whether you feel comfortable discussing sensitive topics
- Gender preference (male vs female provider)
- Whether they provide both obstetric and gynecologic care or focus on one area
- On-site services like ultrasound, lab testing, or minor procedures
- Practice type (solo practitioner, group practice, or academic medical center)
- Approach to birth (natural birth friendly, cesarean rates, pain management options)
- Experience with high-risk pregnancies or complex gynecologic conditions if needed
- After-hours availability or nurse triage line for urgent questions
Quick Tip
Don't hesitate to schedule consultations with multiple ob-gyns before making your decision. The right fit isn't just about credentials—it's also about feeling comfortable and confident in your care.
Cost and Insurance Information
Understanding the costs associated with seeing an ob-gyn can help you plan for your healthcare needs.
Average Costs (Without Insurance)
Initial Visit
$200-$400
Follow-up Visit
$100-$250
Common Procedures
Note: These are estimated average costs and can vary based on location, provider, and specific services required.
Insurance Coverage
- Most health insurance plans cover annual well-woman exams with no copay under the Affordable Care Act preventive care mandate
- Pap smears, mammograms, and contraception are typically covered as preventive care with no out-of-pocket costs
- Prenatal care and delivery are covered by all health insurance plans under the ACA's maternity benefits requirement
- Diagnostic visits (for symptoms or problems) usually require specialist copays and may be subject to deductibles
- Some plans require referrals from primary care physicians; others allow direct access to OB-GYNs
- Procedures and surgeries typically require prior authorization from insurance
- Check your specific plan for copays, deductibles, coinsurance, and out-of-pocket maximums
- Out-of-network providers may result in higher costs or no coverage
- High-deductible health plans require meeting the deductible before coverage begins for most services (except preventive care)
- Fertility treatments are often not covered or have limited coverage
Medicare Information
Medicare Part B covers annual well-woman visits, Pap smears and pelvic exams, mammograms, and bone density screening. Medicare covers medically necessary OB-GYN visits and procedures. Medicare generally does not cover pregnancy care as most beneficiaries are beyond reproductive age, though some younger Medicare recipients may qualify. Medicare Advantage plans may offer additional coverage and different cost-sharing.
Money-Saving Tips
- 1Always verify your ob-gyn is in-network before scheduling
- 2Ask about self-pay discounts if you don't have insurance
- 3Inquire about payment plans for expensive procedures
- 4Get prior authorization when required to avoid claim denials
- 5Use FSA or HSA funds for eligible medical expenses
Questions to Ask Your OB-GYN
Being prepared for your appointment helps you get the most out of your time with your doctor. Here are important questions to consider asking an ob-gyn.
What is the recommended prenatal care visit schedule for my pregnancy?
What birth plan options are available at your hospital or birthing center?
What contraception options do you recommend based on my health history and lifestyle?
How do you approach menopause management and hormone replacement therapy?
When should I have my next Pap smear and mammogram based on my age and risk factors?
What genetic testing or screening do you recommend during pregnancy?
How do you handle after-hours emergencies and who covers when you're unavailable?
What is your cesarean section rate and philosophy on interventions during labor?
How do you approach treatment for heavy or painful periods?
What fertility evaluation and treatment options do you offer in your practice?
Pro Tip
Write down your questions before your appointment and bring them with you. Don't hesitate to take notes during your visit or ask for written instructions.
When to Seek Emergency Care
Know when symptoms require immediate attention versus a scheduled appointment.
While most conditions can wait for a scheduled appointment with an ob-gyn, certain symptoms require immediate emergency care. Go to the emergency room or call 911 if you experience:
- Heavy vaginal bleeding soaking through one pad or more per hour
- Severe abdominal or pelvic pain that is sudden or worsening
- During pregnancy: severe headache, vision changes, or sudden swelling in face or hands (signs of preeclampsia)
- During pregnancy: noticeable decrease in fetal movement or no movement for several hours
- Signs of ectopic pregnancy: sharp one-sided pain, dizziness, lightheadedness, or shoulder pain with positive pregnancy test
- Fever over 101°F with pelvic pain, which may indicate infection
- Water breaking (rupture of membranes) before 37 weeks of pregnancy
EMERGENCY
Call 911 or nearest ER
URGENT
Doctor or urgent care
NON-URGENT
Regular appointment
OB-GYN vs. Other Specialists
Understanding the differences between medical specialists helps you choose the right provider for your needs.
OB-GYN vs. Certified Nurse-Midwife
OB-GYNs are physicians with extensive surgical training who can manage high-risk pregnancies and perform cesarean sections. Certified Nurse-Midwives (CNMs) are advanced practice nurses specializing in low-risk pregnancies, natural childbirth, and routine gynecologic care. Midwives often emphasize minimal intervention and personalized support during labor, while OB-GYNs can handle surgical complications and complex medical conditions.
OB-GYN vs. Reproductive Endocrinologist
OB-GYNs provide comprehensive women's healthcare including basic fertility evaluation and initial treatments like ovulation induction. Reproductive Endocrinologists (REIs) are OB-GYNs with additional fellowship training specifically in infertility and reproductive hormones. REIs perform advanced fertility treatments like IVF, manage complex hormonal disorders, and treat recurrent pregnancy loss.
OB-GYN vs. Maternal-Fetal Medicine Specialist
OB-GYNs manage routine and low-risk pregnancies from conception through delivery. Maternal-Fetal Medicine (MFM) specialists, also called perinatologists, are OB-GYNs with fellowship training in high-risk pregnancies. MFM specialists manage complications like preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, multiple pregnancies, fetal abnormalities, and pregnancies complicated by maternal medical conditions.
OB-GYN vs. Urogynecologist
OB-GYNs provide general care for common pelvic floor issues like mild incontinence or pelvic organ prolapse. Urogynecologists (also called Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery specialists) are OB-GYNs with fellowship training specifically in complex pelvic floor disorders, urinary incontinence, and reconstructive surgery for prolapse and bladder conditions.
Not sure which specialist you need?
Your primary care physician can help determine the right specialist for your condition and provide a referral if needed.
Sources & References
Information about ob-gyns is sourced from peer-reviewed medical literature and authoritative organizations.
Last updated: March 2026
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about ob-gyns
What is the difference between an obstetrician and a gynecologist?
Obstetrics and gynecology are two parts of the same medical specialty. Obstetricians specialize in pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum care, while gynecologists focus on the female reproductive system and women's health outside of pregnancy. Most physicians are trained in both areas (OB-GYN) and provide comprehensive care, though some choose to focus their practice primarily on gynecology and don't deliver babies, while others focus more on obstetrics. When choosing a provider, ask whether they provide both obstetric and gynecologic services or specialize in one area.
When should I start seeing an OB-GYN?
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends that young women have their first visit with an OB-GYN between ages 13 and 15. This initial visit usually focuses on education, answering questions, and doesn't typically include a pelvic exam unless there are specific concerns. Pap smears for cervical cancer screening begin at age 21. After the first visit, you should see your OB-GYN annually for preventive care and whenever you have concerns about reproductive health, menstruation, contraception, or sexual health.
How often should I have a Pap smear?
Current screening guidelines recommend Pap smears starting at age 21. Women ages 21-29 should have a Pap smear every 3 years. Women ages 30-65 have three options: Pap smear every 3 years, HPV test every 5 years, or combined Pap and HPV testing (co-testing) every 5 years. Women over 65 who have had adequate prior screening and no history of precancer can stop screening. Women who have had a total hysterectomy for benign reasons may not need Pap smears. Your OB-GYN will recommend the appropriate schedule based on your individual history and risk factors.
Do I need to see an OB-GYN if I'm pregnant, or can my primary care doctor handle it?
While some family medicine physicians provide prenatal care and deliver babies, most pregnant women see an OB-GYN or certified nurse-midwife for prenatal care and delivery. OB-GYNs have specialized training in managing pregnancy complications, performing cesarean sections, and handling high-risk situations. If you have a high-risk pregnancy due to age, medical conditions, or pregnancy complications, an OB-GYN or maternal-fetal medicine specialist is especially important. Your primary care doctor can refer you to an appropriate prenatal care provider.
Can an OB-GYN be my primary care doctor?
Many women, especially during their reproductive years, use their OB-GYN as their primary care provider. OB-GYNs are trained to provide preventive care including annual exams, breast exams, screening for common health conditions, managing contraception, and addressing many general health concerns. However, for complex medical conditions, ongoing chronic disease management, or issues outside women's health, you may still need a primary care physician or internist. Some women benefit from having both an OB-GYN for reproductive health and a primary care doctor for general medical care.
What should I do to prepare for my first OB-GYN appointment?
Before your first visit, write down your medical history including previous surgeries, medications, allergies, and family health history. Note your menstrual cycle details (when periods started, regularity, duration, flow). Write down any questions or concerns. Avoid intercourse, douching, or using vaginal medications for 24-48 hours before your appointment if a pelvic exam is planned. You don't need to schedule around your period unless you're due for a Pap smear. Bring your insurance card and photo ID. Remember that everything you discuss is confidential, so be honest about sexual activity, concerns, and symptoms.
Is it normal to feel nervous about a pelvic exam?
Yes, feeling nervous about pelvic exams is completely normal and very common, especially for first-time patients. Communicate your anxiety to your OB-GYN—good providers will explain each step, go slowly, and help you feel more comfortable. You can request a chaperone (nurse) to be present during the exam. Deep breathing and relaxing your muscles can help reduce discomfort. The exam typically takes only a few minutes. Remember that pelvic exams are an important part of maintaining your health. If you have a history of trauma that makes exams particularly difficult, discuss this with your provider so they can take extra care to support you.
When should I call my OB-GYN outside of regular appointments?
Contact your OB-GYN promptly for: severe pelvic or abdominal pain, abnormal vaginal bleeding (especially heavy bleeding or bleeding after menopause), unusual vaginal discharge with odor or itching, fever with pelvic pain, suspected pregnancy, missed periods when you're not trying to conceive, severe menstrual cramps interfering with daily life, pain during intercourse, symptoms of urinary tract infection, breast lumps or changes, or any concerning symptoms during pregnancy such as bleeding, severe headaches, vision changes, decreased fetal movement, or contractions. Most offices have nurse triage lines for urgent questions between appointments.
What are my options if I need an OB-GYN but feel uncomfortable with a male provider?
Patient comfort is paramount, and it's completely acceptable to prefer a female OB-GYN. Many practices have female physicians, and you can specifically request a female provider when making your appointment. In areas where female OB-GYNs are less available, you might also consider certified nurse-midwives (CNMs), who are primarily women and provide comprehensive women's healthcare including prenatal care and gynecologic services. If you see a male OB-GYN, a female nurse or chaperone is always present during examinations. Your comfort and trust in your provider is essential for good healthcare, so don't hesitate to find a provider who makes you feel at ease.
How do I know if I should see a regular OB-GYN or a specialist?
Most women's health needs can be managed by a general OB-GYN. However, you may need a subspecialist for certain conditions. Maternal-fetal medicine specialists (perinatologists) manage high-risk pregnancies. Gynecologic oncologists treat reproductive cancers. Reproductive endocrinologists specialize in infertility and hormonal disorders. Urogynecologists focus on pelvic floor disorders and urinary incontinence. Your general OB-GYN will recognize when your condition requires subspecialty expertise and provide appropriate referrals. Many complex cases involve collaborative care between your OB-GYN and a subspecialist.
Medical disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider with questions about a medical condition. If you have a medical emergency, call 911. Our editorial standards