Job Description for an OB-GYN
An obstetrician/gynecologist, or OB-GYN, is a physician who specializes in the health of the female reproductive system (gynecology) and manages women before and immediately after pregnancy (obstetrics). These doctors attend four years of undergraduate school, four years of medical school and participate in a two-year residency that includes specialization in the female reproductive system. Afterward, the doctors are able to sit for the certification exam to specialize in obstetrics and gynecology provided by The American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology (ABOG). OB-GYNs work in hospitals, private practice or as part of a group of doctors.
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Pregnancy Matters
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As an OB-GYN, professionals tend to the needs of women through pregnancy to childbirth. The doctor's obstetrics duties include monitoring the mother and fetus to ensure both are healthy during the nine-month process. In addition, through the use of an ultrasound, the doctor can detect the presence of multiple births or birth defects, such as Down's syndrome. They are also responsible for delivering the baby, either naturally or by cesarean section, and making sure the baby and mother are healthy.
Keeping Women Healthy
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The OB-GYN treats and diagnoses ailments specific to the female reproductive organs. Their focus includes examining patients for breast, cervix and ovarian cancers, treating urinary tract and pelvic disorders, and hormonal disorders. Some OB-GYNs perform minor laser surgeries. Pap smears and breast exams are the most common tests OB-GYNs provide. Treating sexually transmitted disease is also a duty. In addition, their family planning duties include prescribing birth control medications and recommending fertility drugs.
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Referral System
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Some disorders in women are diagnosed by an OB-GYN, but are out of the doctor's treatment area. Therefore, it is the responsibility of the OB-GYN to refer patients to other physicians. For example, a woman who exhibits symptoms of premenstrual dysphoric disorder--an illness in which a woman exhibits severe depression before her menstrual cycles--is usually given a physical and pelvic examination by the OB-GYN and referred to a psychiatrist for additional treatment options.
Informing the Public
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Education and consultation are important duties of OB-GYNs. Some of the areas in which they consult include HIV and AIDS and other sexually transmitted diseases, birth control options and pregnancy health. One of the most common education areas OB-GYNs take part in is breast examinations for cancer. OB-GYN offices have information to help women self-monitor their bodies and learn what to do if they find a lump in their breasts.
Beyond Specialization
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The ABOG offers certification in four subspecialties for board-certified obstetrician-gynecologists. The areas are maternal-fetal medicine (care of high-risk pregnancy); gynecologic oncology (care of women with cancers of the reproductive system); reproductive endocrinology and infertility (care of women who have hormonal or infertility problems); and female pelvic medicine and reconstructive surgery (care of urinary tract dysfunction and disorders stemming from loss of support of pelvic structures). Candidates must have three years' experience as an OB-GYN and pass an oral and written test.
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