
Working as an obstetrician-gynecologist can be a relatively fast-paced job that enables you to help women of all ages. It’s the ideal occupation for those who like forming compassionate relationships with their female patients and like to affect their lives positively.
Still, mastering obstetrical care won’t happen overnight. To become an expert in this medical area, you must become eligible to apply for this career.
And as such, this article will focus on everything you need to know about becoming an OB-GYN.
The Role of an OB-GYN
In short, these experts specialize in gynecology and obstetrics to help female patients in various areas, such as the female reproductive system, sexual health, pregnancy, and delivery itself.
OB-GYNs often perform various surgical procedures, like cesarian sections and uterine fibroid removal.
Furthermore, they may also provide family planning services.
Women will often use gynecologists and OB-GYNs interchangeably. However, they are not the same medical professionals.
In short, OB-GYNs have two separate specialties, while gynecologists will only be eligible to address those medical issues pertaining to gynecology.
Differences Between an OB-GYN and a Gynecologist
OB-GYNs specialize in a wide range of obstetric issues and areas of care, involving more or less all aspects of pregnancy, from prenatal to post-natal care. Obstetricians help women during delivery, while gynecologists won’t. OB-GYNs are also more well-versed in providing fertility treatments. Also, they can help improve your overall health through consultations and health tips.
On the other hand, OB-GYNs can also help with high-risk pregnancies and other emergency issues. On that end, these experts will also be able to address pregnancy complications, such as:
- Placenta issues
- Preeclampsia
- Fetal distress
- Cesarian deliveries
- Ectopic pregnancy
On the other hand, gynecologists specialize in addressing issues related to a woman’s reproductive health from the first period after menopause. As such, they handle most conditions that can develop in the female reproductive system.
They may also provide different consulting services related to safe and responsible sex and how it lessens the risk of catching sexually transmitted diseases. They may also offer other services, like well-woman exams.
Here are only some of the conditions gynecologists can diagnose and treat in women:
- Various vaginal infections
- Different issues that may trigger pain during sex
- Uterine fibroids
- Menstruation irregularities
- Pelvic organ prolapse
- Ovarian cysts
- Endometriosis
Becoming an OB-GYN
Typically, these are the steps required to become an OB-GYN:
1. Graduating from High School
Those who want to work in this profession should first take different science classes in high schools, such as chemistry, physics, and biology, to build a robust foundation for their undergraduate studies. Having top grades is also crucial for proper OB-GYN training program qualifications.
2. Getting a Bachelor’s Degree
While chances are you won’t find a major for OB-GYN, getting a major in pre-medicine or science can be helpful for your medical training. Pursuing courses like chemistry, anatomy, biology, physics, and genetics can help you get the upper hand and meet the requirements for medical school.
3. Enrolling in Medical School
Before enrolling here, it’s advised that you take the MCAT or Medical College Admission Tests that evaluate your knowledge of several crucial subjects.
4. Completing an OB-GYN Residency
After finishing medical school, you should complete a four-year residency in the field of obstetrics and gynecology the master its different areas. Additionally, you might have to spend some time in a hospital or clinic and respond to specific emergencies and cases until you gain enough experience.
5. Becoming Certified
After this, you must gain a state license. Before that, a licensed expert will probably supervise you. Getting the license will also mean that you will have to pass the pertaining exam.
6. Don’t Stop Perfecting Your Craft
Consider getting additional certifications even after getting your license. For instance, earning board certification from the American Board of Gynecology and Obstetrics is an excellent way to start. Also, consider getting specialty certificates to get better at your profession and be able to offer even more help to your patients.
Conclusion
Pursuing a medical career is by no means easy. It takes a lot of patience, studying, and time. Still, those who are passionate about helping others will keep pushing toward their ultimate goal. And when you consider that OB-GYNs play crucial roles in the different milestones women have during their life, this is truly a career where one can make a genuine difference for the better.