OB/GYN
Another area of intensive Family Practice training is Obstetrics (treating pregnant women and delivering babies) and Gynecology (treatment of medical problems related to the female genital tract). This area is often abbreviated OB/GYN.
Some Family Practitioners deliver babies, and even do cesarean sections (delivering babies by surgery, C-section). This is especially prominent in the southwest United States, as there is a relative shortage of physicians (especially OB/GYNs) in this area. While Dr. Beard received training in Obstetrics, he has elected to do only pap smears and minor GYN procedures instead of delivering babies. Pregnant women are referred to an Obstetrician for their obstetrical care.
