Obstetrics and gynecology offers a variety of career opportunities. A person who chooses to work in this field can work as a primary care provider, specialize in gynecologic oncology, or specialize in reproductive medicine. Some doctors choose to specialize in obstetrics, which involves delivering babies and assisting women throughout their pregnancies.
A number of doctors choose to specialize in obstetrics and gynecology in primary care. These doctors are known as OB-GYNs (obstetricians and gynecologists). Female patients are seen by these doctors on a regular basis. An OB-GYN will perform STD testing, PAP smears to check for early signs of cervical cancer, and breast exams on a patient. She may also advise a patient on contraceptive methods or implant contraceptive devices. Some OB-GYNs must deal with patients who have been raped or abused, and they must be emotionally capable of handling such situations.
Those who want to specialize in pregnancy and childbirth may choose to become obstetricians. Obstetricians specialize in the delivery of babies and assisting women with their pregnancies. They frequently assist women in the weeks and months following childbirth. Gynecologists are doctors who specialize in diseases of the reproductive system but do not deal with pregnancy or childbirth.
A gynecologic oncologist is a doctor who chooses to specialize further in obstetrics and gynecology. An oncologist is a doctor who diagnoses and treats cancer patients. Patients with cancers of the vaginal, uterine, and other female reproductive organs are treated by gynecologic oncologists. To become an oncologist in the United States, a doctor must complete four years of medical school, a four-year residency in obstetrics and gynecology, and then two to four years as a fellow in a hospital’s oncology program.
Reproductive endocrinologists are obstetrics and gynecology doctors who specialize in reproduction and fertility. A reproductive endocrinologist is a doctor who specializes in the study of the body’s glands and hormone systems and can assist infertile couples in conceiving. Reproductive endocrinologists, like gynecologic oncologists, must complete a fellowship in an endocrinology program after their residencies and four years of medical school.
Obstetrics and gynecology careers are available in both private practice and public clinics. A doctor may choose to work in a multi-specialty practice, which means she will be surrounded by doctors who specialize in various fields such as otolaryngology or podiatry. Some doctors work as faculty members at medical schools, where they treat patients and teach students.