Medical and surgical specialty concerned with the management of pregnancy and childbirth and with the health of the female reproductive system .
Obstetrics, first practiced by midwives, developed as a medical discipline in the 17th19th centuries, adopting the use of forceps in delivery, anesthetics, and antiseptic methods. The last two made cesarean section possible. Obstetricians confirm pregnancy, diagnose ectopic pregnancy , conduct prenatal care, perform amniocentesis , deliver babies, and perform abortions. In the late 20th century a backlash against the excessive medicalization of birth led to a revival of midwifery and encouragement of natural childbirth . Gynecologists do routine pelvic exams, take samples for Pap smear s, advise on and prescribe birth control, and treat reproductive system disorders (e.g., endometriosis , hormonal imbalances, problems with menstruation and menopause ). They perform surgery to prevent conception (tubal ligation), repair pelvic injuries, and remove cysts and tumours from the uterus , cervix, and ovaries . Both specialties are involved in diagnosis and treatment of infertility . See also hysterectomy .