Is a gynecologist the same as a regular doctor that you go to for checkups? Or do you need to have two different doctors? – Raissa Gynecologists and primary care doctors specialize in different things. Gynecologists are trained to focus on women's health issues. Primary care doctors (also sometimes called "general practitioners") are the doctors we see for regular checkups and immunizations, and when we're not feeling well. Family medicine doctors, internists, and pediatricians are all primary care doctors. Some primary care doctors provide routine gynecological care like breast and pelvic exams, but others don't. It all depends on the doctor. Primary care doctors who do provide gynecological care may still refer patients to gynecologists for more specific care if they think it's needed. Ask your primary care doctor if she or he does routine gynecological exams. If not, ask for the name of a gynecologist. *Names have been changed to protect user privacy. Back to Articles Related Articles Pap Smears A Pap smear is a medical test that helps doctors figure out if there are any problems with a girl's cervix. Find out what happens during a Pap smear. Read More Pelvic Exams A pelvic exam is where a doctor or nurse practitioner looks at a girl's reproductive organs (both outside and internally) and feels the uterus and ovaries to be sure everything's normal. Find out what's involved in this article for teens. Read More Taking Charge of Your Medical Care Figuring out health care is part of becoming an independent adult. Here are tips for teens on what that involves, and how to choose your own doctor. Read More Gyn Checkups Girls should get their first gynecological checkup between ages 13 and 15. Find out what happens during a yearly gyn visit -- and why most girls don't get internal exams. Read More Managing Your Medical Care Visit our center on managing your medical care for advice on how to get involved in taking charge of your health and choosing the right health care providers. Read More Talking to Your Doctor Your best resource for health information and advice is your doctor - the person who knows you, your medical history, and accurate medical information to answer your questions. Read More When Is it Time to Start Seeing a Gynecologist? Find out what the experts have to say. Read More Note: All information is for educational purposes only. For specific medical advice, diagnoses, and treatment, consult your doctor. © 1995-2021 KidsHealth®. All rights reserved. Images provided by The Nemours Foundation, iStock, Getty Images, Veer, Shutterstock, and Clipart.com.