Studies & Degrees in Obstetrics & Gyanaecology

Choose where you would like to study Obstetrics & Gyanaecology:

Obstetrics and Gynecology, often called OB/GYN, is a medical and surgical specialty that deals with the female reproductive organ. When people hear the word OB/GYN, the first thing that comes to mind is that this is a specialty dealing with pregnant woman, but that is not the case. Obstetrics and Gynecology deals with the clinical condition of the female reproductive system and also provides care to both the pregnant and non-pregnant women. It is safe to say that OB/GYN deals with women’s health in general.

This medical specialty, Obstetrics and Gynecology, has not always been view as a single field of study. Each one took their own separate historical paths. Obstetrics, the medical specialty for pregnant women, has always been the territory of female midwives. But by the 17th century, it became common practice for the royal family and the aristocrats to have a physician deliver the baby at birth and this practice spreads throughout the middle class family. Gynecology on the other hand existed during the times of the ancient Greek which deals with the diseases of the female genitalia. Around the early 18th century, simple surgical operations were being performed on the ovary and the uterus. Even though they were making such progress at that time, it was not an easy road for the pioneering physicians. They have to overcome several taboo issues in the society like exposure of the female genitalia during examination. Then the discovery of anesthesia and antiseptic used in surgical procedure happened. These two great advances enable the physicians to overcome social taboo issues of female genitalia exposure during examination. The union of these two specialties began late in the 18th century mainly due to the overlapping natural concerns and has continued to do so until today.

The road to becoming a licensed obstetrician and gynecologist is both challenging and rewarding. Challenging because depending on where you live, it generally takes twelve years to become a practitioner in this field. First you need to graduate from college. It will be beneficial to take pre-med course like maybe biology, chemistry or microbiology. Then enroll and attend medical school for another four years and then residency for another four years specializing in the field of Gynecology. Taking a board certification exam is also necessary to be able to practice in the field of obstetrics and gynecology on your own.

Aside from having that rare pleasure of helping a woman gives birth, an obstetrician and gynecologist also will handle life-threatening situation. Twelve years or so of study is necessary to be efficient in this career but having the right attitude helps a lot too. Having the ability to work and make decisions under pressure, mental and physical stamina, can communicate well, and of course, capable to handle stress are just few of the attitudes needed to be successful and have a rewarding career in OB/GYN. Working in field of Obstetrics and Gynecology is really very satisfying. Witnessing the miracle of life everyday and helping to make it happen is a wonderful experience.