Operational Definition of Woman in Obstetrics and Gynecology
In contemporary obstetrics and gynecology clinical practice, "woman" is operationally defined as individuals who require or may benefit from reproductive health services encompassing the full spectrum of female reproductive anatomy, physiology, and associated health conditions—this includes cisgender women, transgender men who retain female reproductive organs, and non-binary individuals with female reproductive systems.
Clinical Framework
The provided evidence does not contain formal operational definitions from major guideline organizations. However, the clinical scope can be derived from the functional approach to women's health care:
Patient Population Scope
The specialty serves individuals with:
- Female reproductive anatomy requiring obstetric care (pregnancy, childbirth, postpartum management) 1
- Gynecologic conditions affecting reproductive organs regardless of gender identity, including benign disease management and fertility preservation 2
- Reproductive health needs spanning preventive care, cancer detection, family planning, and sexual health concerns 1, 3
Practical Clinical Application
In real-world practice, obstetricians and gynecologists provide care based on:
- Anatomical and physiological considerations: The presence of female reproductive organs (uterus, ovaries, fallopian tubes, vagina) determines clinical needs 2
- Reproductive potential: Fertility-sparing approaches are tailored to individuals of reproductive age with preservation goals, regardless of gender identity 2
- Comprehensive women's health: Services extend beyond reproductive organs to address health disparities and gender-specific conditions affecting this patient population 4
Important Clinical Caveats
The operational definition must be functionally inclusive to avoid excluding patients who need reproductive health services but may not identify as women (e.g., transgender men requiring gynecologic care, non-binary individuals needing obstetric services). The focus remains on the clinical needs arising from female reproductive anatomy and physiology rather than solely on gender identity 1, 4.
Modern departments increasingly frame themselves around "women's health" as a comprehensive concept that encompasses both the traditional scope and evolving understanding of gender diversity in clinical care 4.