Doctors who specialize in medical care
related to a woman’s reproductive system
are called OB/GYNs,
short for obstetricians and gynecologists.
While OB/GYNs may provide
both types of care,
obstetricians focus on pregnancy
and delivery,
and gynecologists specialize
in diagnosing and treating issues
related to women's reproductive health.
OB/GYNs care for women during pregnancy,
giving advice and performing tests
such as ultrasounds
and fetal heart rate monitoring
to check on the health
of the developing fetus and the mother.
Obstetricians perform the delivery,
and if necessary perform
a surgical caesarean section.
Since every birth is different
and changes happen quickly,
critical thinking
and the ability to handle stressful conditions
are important.
OB/GYNs also care for women
at all stages of life.
They diagnose and treat conditions
related to the reproductive system,
such as performing screening exams,
offering birth control counseling,
and preventing infections.
Most OB/GYNs perform surgery,
and often consult with
other healthcare professionals.
OB/GYNS work in outpatient clinics
and hospitals.
They may specialize in an area
such as infertility, cancer,
or high-risk pregnancy.
Work schedules are often
more than 40 hours per week,
along with emergency deliveries
that occur at any hour.
Education requirements include
completing medical school,
followed by 4 years of residency training.
Specialists spend an additional
1-4 years in training.