Obstetrics
Obstetrics, branch of medicine that specializes in caring for women during pregnancy, labor, and immediately following childbirth. The term derives from the Latin obstare, meaning to stand by, or opstare, meaning to render aid, and obstetrix, meaning the woman who stands by. Until the early 18th century, childbirth assistants were usually midwives, women who provide care to other women during pregnancy and childbirth. During the 19th century, obstetrics evolved as a medical specialty. Physicians who specialize in obstetrics are called obstetricians. Obstetricians are commonly also certified in gynecology , to provide care for a wide range of problems involving the reproductive system. Obstetricians with special training in high-risk pregnancy are referred to as maternal-fetal medicine specialists or perinatologists. Many physicians in family practice include obstetrics and some gynecologic surgery in their practices. In addition, midwifery is practiced in many parts of the United Stat...