Obstetricians and Gynecologists
Career Snapshot
Obstetricians and gynaecologists (OB/GYNs) are doctors who specialise in medical care for a woman's reproductive system. While OB/GYNs may provide both types of care, obstetricians specialise in pregnancy and delivery, whereas gynaecologists specialise in diagnosing and treating reproductive health disorders in women. OB/GYNs provide prenatal care to women by providing counselling and doing tests such as ultrasounds and foetal heart rate monitoring to assess the health of the developing foetus and the mother. Obstetricians deliver babies and, if required, perform surgical caesarean sections. Because every birth is unique and changes occur quickly, critical thinking and the capacity to deal with stressful situations are essential. OB/GYNs also provide care to women at various times of their lives. They diagnose and treat reproductive system issues, such as performing screening exams, providing birth control counselling, and preventing infections. Most OB/GYNs do surgery and frequently consult with other healthcare providers. Outpatient clinics and hospitals employ OB/GYNS. They could specialise on infertility, cancer, or high-risk pregnancies. Work schedules are frequently more than 40 hours a week, with emergency deliveries occurring at any time. Completing medical school is required, followed by four years of resident training. Specialists must train for an additional 1-4 years.