Obstetrics and gynecology are medical specialties that focus on the female reproductive system. Physicians who specialize in obstetrics can deliver babies and diagnose and treat issues related to the menstrual cycle, reproductive organs, vulvar diseases, and urinary tract disorders. Those who specialize in gynecology can also perform surgeries, including hysterectomies and removal of tumors such as uterine fibroids. In addition, gynecologists can perform sterilization procedures and prescribe birth control. Physicians who practice both obstetrics and gynecology can often subspecialize in fields such as urogynecological surgery, maternal-fetal medicine, and reproductive endocrinology. Subspecialists may also pursue fellowship training, which can last 2-4 years.
For many women, visits to the gynecologist are a regular part of life. Gynecologists have a vast knowledge of a woman’s body and are trained to spot problems like polycystic ovarian syndrome, which can lead to infertility. During a visit to the gynecologist, the doctor will examine the vagina and uterus, and check for abnormalities in the cervix. During the exam, the patient can ask questions and discuss issues that are important to her.
The field of gynecology has come a long way since the 1700s, when French anatomist Marie Francois Xavier Bichat studied female anatomy with wax models, and German humanist Johann Peter Lotichius wrote “Gynaecologia historico-medica” and “De nobilitate et perfectie sexus feminei.” Today, the gynecologist’s duties include preventing disease through screening, education and prevention; treating problems with the menstrual cycle, sexual function and urinary tract; delivering babies; and providing contraception. During the 20th century, obstetricians helped develop hormonal birth control and methods to reduce birth defects and problem deliveries. Additionally, obstetricians can now use ultrasounds and amniocenteses to detect potential birth defects in fetuses, as well as perform abortions if necessary.자궁근종로봇수술
OB/GYNs also help patients prepare for pregnancies, educating them on what to expect and providing prenatal care and instruction. They can assist in delivery with a variety of techniques, including Cesarean sections. OB/GYNs can also diagnose and treat reproductive cancers, including uterine fibroids, ovarian cysts, and a variety of other conditions.
It takes a special kind of person to become an OB/GYN. In addition to a strong background in both gynecology and obstetrics, these physicians need to be able to effectively communicate with patients. They must be able to put women at ease about sensitive issues and explain complicated medical procedures. They also need to be adaptable, as unexpected situations frequently arise during their shifts.
To become an OB/GYN, physicians first must complete a bachelor’s degree and then earn a medical degree, either a Doctor of Medicine (MD) or a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO). After earning their degree, they can take the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) to apply for a residency program. A residency is the final step in becoming a licensed physician and usually takes three to eight years. During their residency, physicians train in specialized areas such as gynecology and OB/GYN.강남산부인과
AUC’s Office of Career Advisement can help students determine which specialized area best suits them and then assists in the National Resident Matching Program, through which medical students seek to be placed at a hospital for their next medical job. During the past two years, the percentage of AUC MD graduates who have matched with a OB/GYN residency has been at the high end of the national average.