About Obstetrics and Gynaecology

Obstetrics and Gynaecology are medical specialties that focus on two seperate but closely related aspects of the female health. Obstetrics deals with the care of the pregnant women, labour and postpartum health. Gynaecology deals with any ailment concerning the female reproductive organs: uterus, fallopian tubes, cervix, ovaries and vagina. To enrol in an Obstetrics and Gynaecology programme a bachelor’s degree is required.    The demand for obstetricians and gynaecologists is on the rise in tandem with the rise in population. Better healthcare techniques have increased people’s confidence in medicine and an increasing number of women consult gynaecologists from the start of their pregnancy.  

　　

Is Obstetrics and Gynaecology right for me? 

Obstetrics and Gynaecology puts you in a position to play a direct role in providing healthcare to women. As an obstetrician and/or gynaecologist you will help women lead a healthier and happier life. If this sounds inspiring to you then you have the seed of passion needed to excel in this field of study.   Obstetrician and Gynaecology requires you to have some qualities traits that will help you perform at your best. You must adhere to high ethical standards due to the sensitive nature of your work. Secondly, you must be compassionate and empathetic allowing you to study long hours. Thirdly, you must be patient and disciplined as the field requires lots of study and research.  

　　

Obstetrics and Gynaecology study options and costs 

　　Preparing to become an obstetrician and gynaecologist begins with a high school education. Taking science and math classes like physics, chemistry, and biology can help lay the foundation for your undergraduate studies. You'll want to maintain high grades to qualify for undergraduate programs.   

　　To become an obstetrician and/or gynaecologists typically you’ll need a bachelor’s degree followed by an education in Obstetrics and Gynaecology from a medical school, which takes 4 years to complete, and, 3 to 7 years in internship and residency programs. 

　　Obstetrics and Gynaecology programme in medical schools are highly competitive. In the US, most applicants must submit transcripts, scores from the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT), and letters of recommendation. Schools also consider an applicant’s personality, leadership qualities, and participation in extracurricular activities. Most schools will panel interview applicants with members of the admissions committee. 

　　Students spend most of the first 2 years of medical school in laboratories and classrooms, taking courses such as anatomy, biochemistry, pharmacology, psychology and medical ethics. They also gain practical skills: learning to take medical histories, examine patients, and diagnose diseases. 

　　During their last 2 years, medical students work with patients under the supervision of experienced physicians in hospitals and clinics. Through rotations in internal medicine, family practice, obstetrics and gynaecology, pediatrics, psychiatry, and surgery, they gain experience in diagnosing and treating illnesses in a variety of areas. 

　　The cost of Obstetrics and Gynaecology education varies according to country and location. According to the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC), the total costs vary by institution type and location, ranging from $202,612 to $234,976, in total. 

　　

Future outlook

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that demand for the Obstetrics and Gynaecology profession is expected to rise by 15.2% from 2016 to 2026. This is faster than the national average, and slightly faster than for most other physicians and surgeons.    The rapid growth in employment opportunities, handsome salary packages and career satisfaction are strong indicators of the favourable outlook of this field.  

　　

Career pathways for Obstetrics and Gynaecology graduates

　　

Obstetrician

　　An obstetrician is a physician that specialises in childbirth, prenatal health and postpartum care. They treat medical conditions unique to pregnancy and perform surgeries related to childbirth. The average annual salary of an obstetrician is $208,000.

Gynaecologist

　　A gynaecologist is a doctor who specialises in female reproductive health. They diagnose and treat issues related to the female reproductive tract. The average salary for a gynaecologist is around $238,320 per year.

Gynaecologic Oncologist

　　Gynaecologic oncologists offer an integrated approach to the diagnosis and surgical management of cancerous and noncancerous (benign) conditions of the female reproductive system. These individuals earn on average $380,000 per year.