What Does OB Mean?
OB is an abbreviation for a doctor called an obstetrician. Obstetricians are doctors trained to care for women during pregnancy, through childbirth and during the postpartum period.
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Defining "OB"
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WomensHealthChannel.com defines an obstetrician as "a physician who has successfully completed specialized education and training in the management of pregnancy, labor and pueperium (the time period directly following childbirth)."
OB/GYN
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You will commonly see "OB" followed by "GYN." GYN is the abbreviation for "gynecologist." WomensHealthChannel.com defines a gynecologist as "a physician who has a successfully completed specialized education and training in the health of the female reproductive system, including the diagnosis and treatment of disorders and diseases."
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Specialities
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OB/GYNs are trained to care for a woman's reproductive system throughout pregnancy as well as with any concerns throughout the year. OB/GYNs also perform annual checkups.
OB/GYNs may also specialize in one or more of the following areas: acute or chronic medical conditions, adolescent gynecology, cancer, endocrinology, infertility, operative gynecology, preventative health or urinary tract infections.
Becoming an OB/GYN
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The education process for becoming an obstetrician is done along with gynecology, which is why you will see OB/GYN together.
Around 12 years of education are required after high school. The first part of the college career involves intensive biology, chemistry and physics classes. Extensive studies take place in prep for the MCAT, an assessment needed for acceptance into medical school. The first two years of medical school are spent in a classroom and the last two working hands-on in clinical situations.
Graduation opens the door to yet another series of tests called "board exams." The boards must be passed prior to obtaining a license.
During the time prior to being licensed, one must complete a residency, practicing medicine under supervision.
Costs of Becoming an OB/GYN
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The average cost of this education is around $120,000. Seeking scholarships or other forms of financial aid can help reduce the cost of the education.
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References
- Photo Credit Erika Bryant
