Gynecology (from Greek γυνή, gyne, “woman” + -logia, “study”) is the medical practice dealing with the health of the female reproductive systems (vagina, uterus, and ovaries) and the breasts. Outside medicine, the term means “the science of women”. Its counterpart is andrology, which deals with medical issues specific to the male reproductive system.
Almost all modern gynecologists are also obstetricians (see obstetrics and gynecology). In many areas, the specialties of gynecology and obstetrics overlap. The word gynaecology comes from New Latin Gynaecologia < Ancient Greek Γυναικολογία < Γυνή (Gyne), woman + -logy meaning study. The first recorded use in English was in 1811 by Dr James Hamilton. The term gynaecologist has replaced several earlier terms used to describe physicians who specialized in women's health including stomatologist/dentist, apothecary, physician, surgeon and midwife. Obstetrics & Gynecology is the official publication of The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG). Popularly known as "The Green Journal," Obstetrics & Gynecology has been published since 1953. ACOG members receive monthly print copies as a benefit of membership; digital access is complimentary for all members as well.