It’s common for women to rely on their OB-GYN for more than reproductive health. Annual exams, Pap smears, breast exams, and contraceptive care often make it feel like an OB-GYN covers everything a primary care doctor does. But while OB-GYNs are an essential part of your health team, they aren’t always a substitute for a dedicated primary care provider.
What OB-GYNs Do Well
- Reproductive and gynecologic health: Pregnancy care, contraception, fertility, menstrual health, and menopause support.
- Screenings and preventive care: Pap tests, breast exams, HPV testing, and immunizations.
- Women’s health expertise: They specialize in the unique health needs of women at every life stage.
When You May Need Extra Support
Even with excellent care from your OB-GYN, some areas of health often fall outside their scope:
- General Health Conditions
OB-GYNs don’t usually manage conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, asthma, or thyroid disorders. - Whole-Body Preventive Care
Primary care doctors look beyond reproductive health to order labs, check cholesterol and blood sugar, monitor heart health, and recommend colon or skin cancer screenings. - Chronic Condition Management
Family and internal medicine physicians are trained to manage long-term conditions and help prevent complications. - Care Coordination
A primary care provider serves as your “home base,” coordinating referrals to specialists and keeping your medical history in one place. - Life Stage Transitions
As women age, reproductive care becomes less central. Conditions like osteoporosis, heart disease, and metabolic concerns often take priority—areas best managed by a primary care doctor.
Why You May Need Both an OB-GYN and a Primary Care Provider
The best approach is often both/and rather than either/or. An OB-GYN supports your reproductive health, while a primary care provider covers your overall health. Together, they:
- Catch health issues early through routine screenings
- Manage chronic conditions over time
- Provide specialized care for women’s unique health needs
- Offer continuity as your health needs change with age
Summary: Building Your Care Team
Your OB-GYN is an essential partner in your health, but they shouldn’t replace a primary care provider. Having both ensures you don’t miss essential screenings, chronic condition management, or preventive care.
At Boulder Medical Center, our independent, physician-owned model makes it easy to have both types of providers under one roof, ensuring coordinated, comprehensive, and convenient care.