Gynecology

The term gynecology comes from Greek and literally means "teaching of the woman" (gynē = woman, logos = teaching). Gynecology refers to the medical field that deals with the health of female reproductive organs. This includes diseases of the uterus, ovaries, fallopian tubes, vagina, and breast, as well as menstrual disorders and hormonal disorders (e.g. menopausal symptoms), benign and malignant tumors of the female reproductive organs, diagnostics and therapy of infections in the intimate area, and preventive examinations for early detection of diseases. Gynecology covers both preventive and therapeutic treatment of women, ranging from puberty, through the childbearing age, to beyond the menopause period.

Gynecology in distinction to women's medicine

Very often, the term women's medicine is also used in connection with gynecology. This is not wrong, but while gynecology is often strongly focused on medical-technical diagnostics and treatment, women's medicine also includes preventive, psychological, and holistic aspects of women's health. This includes gynecological care and treatment, pregnancy care (prenatal medicine), advice on contraception and family planning, menopausal symptoms, but also psychosomatic support in serious illnesses such as cancer.