How to Become an OB/Gyn Doctor

Ob/gyn doctors, or obstetrician/gynecologists as they're formally known, diagnose and treat general disorders and diseases of the female reproductive system, recommend and prescribe birth control methods, and deliver babies. Becoming an ob/gyn doctor takes a commitment to maintaining excellent grades in high school, college and medical school, an interest in women's health and the flexibility to work long hours when you are attending a woman in labor. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job outlook for obstetrician/gynecologists in the coming years is expected to be very good, due in part to the need to replace retiring physicians.

Things You'll Need

• College education
• Medical school education
• Obstetrics/gynecology residency
• Medical license

Instructions

1. Apply to colleges and universities that have strong pre-med or science programs. A strong college transcript and good grades in such courses as biology, chemistry and anatomy will help ensure your admission to a medical school.

2. Arrange to take the Medical College Admission Test during your junior year of college. The test consists of multiple-choice and essay questions covering verbal reasoning and the physical and biological sciences. The American Association of Medical Colleges' website offers more information on the MCAT (see Resources).

3. Apply to medical schools during your final year of college. Spend extra time making sure your application essay is as polished as possible. Use this opportunity to discuss why you want to be an obstetrician/gynecologist and why you feel that you are particularly suited for this field.

4. Investigate obstetrics/gynecology residency programs during your final year of medical school, and apply to the programs that best fit your career goals. You should also participate in the Electronic Residency Application Service or National Resident Matching Program to maximize your chances of getting a good residency placement (see Resources).

5. Begin serving your residency after graduating from medical school. During your four-year residency, you'll perform gynecological procedures and deliveries and be exposed to a variety of patients and cases.

6. Pass the U.S. Medical Licensing Examination after completing your residency. You'll need a license to set up your own ob/gyn practice or join an established practice.

7. Complete a fellowship if you wish to specialize in a particular area of obstetrics and gynecology. Fellowships lasting one to three years are available in such areas as maternal and fetal medicine, gynecologic oncology, reproductive endocrinology and infertility and critical care medicine.

Tips & Warnings

• Volunteer at a hospital or birthing center in high school or college. Volunteering will give you a good idea if you are suited for an ob/gyn career or if another specialty or career is a better idea for you.

References

• The Doctor Job
• Education Portal
• Bureau of Labor Statistics

Resources

• Medical College Admission Test
• Electronic Residency Application Service
• National Resident Matching Program