OB/GYN Services: An Overview
Obstetrics and Gynecology (OB/GYN) is a medical specialty dedicated to the health of the female reproductive system. Obstetricians focus on pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum care, while gynecologists address the broader spectrum of women’s reproductive health throughout all stages of life. Most OB/GYN physicians are trained in both disciplines, providing comprehensive care from adolescence through menopause and beyond.
Core Concepts of OB/GYN Care
OB/GYN services are divided into two primary areas, often practiced together:
Obstetrics: Focuses on pregnancy and childbirth, including prenatal care, labor and delivery, and postpartum support.
Services include: Prenatal visits, ultrasounds, high-risk pregnancy management, labor and delivery, cesarean sections.
Best for: Women planning pregnancy, expecting mothers, and those needing postpartum care.
Gynecology: Addresses the health of the female reproductive system outside of pregnancy.
Services include: Annual well-woman exams, Pap smears, contraception counseling, treatment of menstrual disorders, menopause management, and gynecological surgery.
Best for: Women of all ages seeking preventive care, treatment for reproductive health issues, or surgical intervention.
Subspecialties:
Urogynecology: Treats pelvic floor disorders, urinary incontinence, and pelvic organ prolapse.
Reproductive Endocrinology: Focuses on infertility and hormonal disorders.
Gynecologic Oncology: Specializes in cancers of the reproductive system.
Top 3 OB/GYN Practices in Nashville, TN
1. WOMEN Obstetrics and Gynecology
Best For: Women seeking an all-female provider practice, those delivering at Saint Thomas Midtown Hospital, and patients wanting midwifery options alongside traditional OB care.
Philosophy: Compassionate, Personalized, All-Female Care. This practice is committed to building long-lasting relationships with patients through attentive, individualized care from an experienced team of female physicians, nurse practitioners, and certified nurse-midwives.
Services:
Obstetrics: Prenatal care, labor and delivery, high-risk pregnancy management.
Gynecology: Annual exams, Pap smears, contraception counseling, menopause management.
Midwifery Services: Natural birth options with certified nurse-midwives.
Surgical Services: Minimally invasive gynecologic surgery.
Location: 300 20th Avenue North, Suite 505, Nashville, TN 37203 (Saint Thomas Midtown Campus)
Contact: (615) 340-4655 | womenob.net
Pricing: Accepts most major insurance plans. Free parking available in attached garage off State Street.
2. Women’s Medical Associates of Nashville
Best For: Women seeking experienced female OB/GYNs, comprehensive women’s healthcare, and a practice with a reputation for excellence in the Nashville community.
Philosophy: Partnership Between Physician and Patient. Established in 2002, this all-female practice takes time to understand each patient’s lifestyle, family history, and individual needs while implementing the latest medical advances in women’s care.
Services:
Obstetrics: Complete pregnancy care from preconception through postpartum, including high-risk pregnancy management.
Gynecology: Well-woman exams, Pap smears, breast exams, contraception.
Menopause Management: Hormone therapy, symptom management, bone health.
Gynecologic Surgery: Minimally invasive procedures, hysterectomy, fibroid treatment.
Preventive Care: Health risk assessments, cancer screenings, immunizations.
Location: 2011 Murphy Avenue, Suite 601, Nashville, TN 37203
Contact: (615) 329-6745 | wmaofnashville.com
Pricing: Accepts most standard insurance policies. BBB Accredited with A+ rating. Hours: Monday through Thursday 8:30 AM to 4:45 PM; Friday 8:30 AM to 12:00 PM.
3. Heritage Women’s Center
Best For: Women seeking multi-specialty care within a larger medical group, those delivering at Saint Thomas Midtown or TriStar Centennial, and patients needing urogynecology services.
Philosophy: Exceeding Expectations Through Personalized Care. Part of Heritage Medical Associates, the Heritage Women’s Center provides exceptional care to women in all phases of life with access to a broad network of specialists and advanced treatments.
Services:
Obstetrics: Prenatal care, pregnancy management, labor and delivery at Saint Thomas Midtown and TriStar Centennial Women’s Hospital.
Gynecology: Annual exams, preventive screenings, contraception, menopause management.
Basic Infertility: Preconception counseling, fertility evaluations.
Urogynecology: Pelvic floor disorders, urinary incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse.
Minimally Invasive Surgery: Laparoscopic and robotic-assisted procedures.
Location: 222 22nd Avenue North, 6th Floor, Nashville, TN 37203 (also in Brentwood: 1620 Westgate Circle)
Contact: (615) 564-2964 | heritagemedical.com/heritage-womens-center
Pricing: Accepts most major insurance plans including Medicare. Part of Heritage Medical Associates network with access to MyChart patient portal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. How often should I see my OB/GYN for routine care?
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends annual well-woman visits for most women starting at age 21. These visits include pelvic exams, breast exams, and preventive screenings. Pap smears are typically performed every 3 years for women ages 21 to 29, and every 3 to 5 years for women 30 to 65 when combined with HPV testing. Your OB/GYN will recommend a schedule based on your individual health history and risk factors.
2. What can I expect during my first prenatal visit?
Your first prenatal visit is usually the longest and most comprehensive. Expect a complete medical history review, physical exam, blood tests (including blood type, Rh factor, and screening for infections), urine tests, and possibly an early ultrasound to confirm your due date. Your OB/GYN will discuss nutrition, prenatal vitamins, lifestyle modifications, and answer any questions about your pregnancy.
3. What hospitals do Nashville OB/GYNs deliver at?
Nashville OB/GYN practices typically deliver at one or more of the following hospitals: Saint Thomas Midtown Hospital, TriStar Centennial Women’s Hospital, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, and TriStar Summit Medical Center. When choosing an OB/GYN, confirm which hospital they are affiliated with and tour the birthing center to ensure it meets your preferences.
4. What is the difference between an OB/GYN and a midwife?
An OB/GYN is a medical doctor trained in obstetrics and gynecology, including surgical procedures and high-risk pregnancy management. A Certified Nurse-Midwife (CNM) is an advanced practice nurse specializing in low-risk pregnancies, natural childbirth, and women’s health. Many Nashville practices, like WOMEN Obstetrics and Gynecology, offer both options. Midwives work collaboratively with OB/GYNs, and if complications arise, care can be transferred seamlessly to a physician.
5. Does my insurance cover OB/GYN visits and maternity care?
Most health insurance plans cover annual well-woman exams, including Pap smears and contraception counseling, at no out-of-pocket cost under preventive care guidelines established by the Affordable Care Act. Maternity care coverage varies by plan, so review your benefits carefully. Deductibles, copays, and out-of-pocket maximums apply to prenatal visits, delivery, and postpartum care. Contact your insurance provider and your OB/GYN’s billing department to understand your specific costs before delivery.