provide specialized care for women. Obstericians specialize in the management of pregnancy and childbirth, while gynecologists diagnose and treat problems of the female reproductive system. Usually, physicians practice the two specialties together.

The obstetrician is a medical doctor who specializes in pregnancy and childbirth. As such, the obstetrician is first the woman's doctor and, second, the doctor for the developing fetus. After birth, a different doctor, usually a pediatrician, steps in to supervise the newborn infant's medical care. Most obstetricians are also gynecologists.