Careers in Medicine: Specialty Information

Obstetrics and Gynecology

Nature of the work

An obstetrician/gynecologist possesses special knowledge, skills and professional capability in the medical and surgical care of the female reproductive system and associated disorders. This physician serves as a consultant to other physicians, and as a primary physician for women.¹

Subspecialities:

Critical Care Medicine - diagnoses, treats and supports female patients with multiple organ dysfunction.
Gynecologic Oncology - provides consultation and comprehensive management of patients with gynecologic cancer.
Hospice and Palliative Medicine - prevents and relieve the suffering experienced by patients with life-limiting illnesses.
Maternal and Fetal Medicine - cares for, or provides consultation on, patients with complications of pregnancy. This specialist has advanced knowledge of the obstetrical, medical and surgical complications of pregnancy.
Reproductive Endocrinology/Infertility - manages complex problems relating to reproductive endocrinology and infertility.

Training/residency information

The residency for obstetrics and gynecology is four years. One to three years of additional training is required to practice in one of the subspecialty areas.

Salary information

The annual salary ranges from approximately $231,514 to $304,689.²

For more information

• American Board of Obstetrics & Gynecology
• American College of Obstetrics & Gynecology

References
1 The American Board of Medical Specialties. Guide to Physician Specialties. Evanston, IL: American Board of Medical Specialties; February 2008.
2 2008 Physician Compensation Survey [special feature]. Modern Healthcare. July 14, 2008: 28-32.

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