What Is a OB Gyn?
OB/GYN (or OB-GYN) is an acronym for Obstetrician (OB) and Gynecologist (GYN). As the name suggests, an OB/GYN is a practitioner who specializes in combined areas of expertise in both fields. When a woman becomes pregnant, it is common for her to seek an OB/GYN to ensure both the mother-to-be and her growing baby remain healthy throughout the entire term of her pregnancy.
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Two Names
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An obstetrician specializes in managing the stages of pregnancy for patients from inception to post-pregnancy. A gynecologist specializes in knowledge and education about the woman's reproductive system, including methods of maintaining a healthy system.
OB/GYN on Call
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An OB/GYN's expertise lies in these areas: prenatal care, pregnancy and childbirth, health and disorders of the reproductive system. OB/GYNs can tell a woman if she will be unable to conceive. They also administer Pap tests and tests to detect cancer, sexually transmitted diseases or urinary tract diseases when necessary.
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Required Education
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If you are studying to become an OB/GYN, you must adhere to a set of requirements to become certified. These requirements have been set forth by the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology (ABOG) and include graduating from an approved medical school and program, and completing a minimum of four years in an OB/GYN residency program. A comprehensive list of requirements may be referenced on the ABOG website.
Areas of Specialization
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According to the Women's Health Channel website, there are four areas of specialization within the obstetrician/gynecology program: 1) gynecologic oncology, 2) maternal/fetal medicine, 3) reproductive endocrinology and infertility and 4) urogynecology/reconstructive pelvic surgery. A separate exam in each area must be taken and passed if you want to be a certified specialist in one or more of these areas.
Becoming Board Certified
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After you have fulfilled all the education requirements as mandated by ABOG, you may proceed with taking an exam administered by ABOG. Upon passing this exam, you will become certified in the field of Obstetrics and Gynecology.
Re-certification
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You must become re-certified every 10 years to continue practicing as an OB/GYN. However, if you received your initial certification prior to the year 1986, you are exempt from re-certification, though you may volunteer to re-certify.
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