There are an estimated more than 10,000 active gynecologists in the U.S. Gynecologists help women make critical decisions regarding their reproductive health and sexual health care. These medical professionals with the median salary of more than $200,000 diagnose and treat a variety of reproductive issues and diseases, including problems with the reproductive tract, which consists of the uterus, vagina, cervix, ovaries, and fallopian tubes.

“The treatment and medical advice provided by gynecologists have a long-lasting impact on every woman’s reproductive health, sexual health care, and health overall,” says our Philadelphia gynecology malpractice attorney at The Weitz Firm, LLC. “Also, any gynecology errors made in diagnoses and treatment can cause serious injuries, irreparable harm, and may even lead to death.”

Gynecologists treat a variety of diseases, including but not limited to:

  • Acne
  • Weight gain or weight loss
  • Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs)
  • Cramping
  • Unusual periods
  • Menopause
  • Abnormal vaginal bleeding
  • Pain or pressure in the pelvis
  • Pain or discomfort during sexual intercourse and
  • Depression

Responsibilities of gynecologists in the U.S.

Not everyone can become a gynecologist. In fact, to practice gynecology in the U.S., you need to complete medical school and a 4-year residency in gynecology to study gynecological diseases, fertility, pregnancy and contraception. There is a constant demand for qualified gynecologists and obstetricians in Pennsylvania and all across the U.S., as it is estimated that the demand for OB/GYN specialists will be increased by around 20 percent before 2022.

“The vast majority of American women start seeing their gynecologist at age 21, but many begin treating with a gynecologist earlier if sexually active or suffering from issues related to the reproductive system,” says our experienced gynecology malpractice attorney in Philadelphia.

There is a long list of procedures and services that gynecologists perform when treating patients, including but not limited to:

  • Breast exams
  • Breast surgeries
  • Pelvic exams
  • Pap tests
  • Tubal litigation
  • Cystoscopies
  • Fetal ultrasounds and heart monitoring
  • Hysterectomies and
  • Bone density testing

Different types of gynecology malpractice

Like any other medical professionals, gynecologists can make mistakes when diagnosing and treating patients. As seen from the vast majority of medical malpractice lawsuits filed against gynecologists, obstetrics and gynecology malpractice can occur when a gynecologist:

  • Fails to diagnose breast, ovarian, cervical or uterine cancer
  • Fails to diagnose prenatal conditions
  • Misreads mammograms, sonograms, and other medical tests and results
  • Fails to properly sterilize tools and equipment when diagnosing or treating
  • Fails to test a patient for HIV or other sexually transmitted diseases
  • Fails to recognize signs of fetal distress or other abnormalities with the fetus
  • Fails to properly perform a surgery, including C-section
  • Makes hysterectomy errors
  • Negligently treats fibroid tumors or endometriosis
  • Fails to address or prevent complications arising from abortions
  • Fails to prevent or warn of side effects or adverse reactions to medications or hormonal treatments
  • Makes medication-related errors and
  • Causes infection, hemorrhage, or injury because of a surgical error or other medical error

Regardless of how you suffered your injury or harm while being diagnosed or treated by a gynecologist, you may be entitled to seek compensation for your damages and losses. Speak to our Philadelphia gynecologist malpractice attorney at The Weitz Firm, LLC, to discuss your case. Call our offices at 267-587-6240 for a free case evaluation.

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