Gynecology is the medical practice dealing with the health of the female reproductive systems (vagina, uterus, and ovaries) and the breasts. A gynecologist is a surgeon who specializes in the female reproductive system, which includes the cervix, fallopian tubes, ovaries, uterus, vagina and vulva. Menstrual problems, contraception, sexuality, menopause and infertility issues are diagnosed and treated by a gynecologist; most gynecologists also provide prenatal care, and some provide primary care.

Menstrual problems include amenorrhea (the absence of menstrual periods), dysmenorrhea (painful menstrual periods) and menorrhagia (heavy menstrual periods). Menorrhagia is a common indication for hysterectomy, which is the surgical removal of the uterus.

Gynecologists most frequently perform an examination known as a pap smear, which is a test that uses an instrument called a speculum to detect abnormalities in the female reproductive system, including cervical and ovarian cancers.