An obstetrician, also called an OB/GYN, is a medical doctor who provides care for women and conditions related to the female reproductive system. Most of an obstetrician/gynecologist's work includes caring for pregnant women and providing preventive care, including annual Pap smears for women. OB/GYNs also offer treatment for conditions such as breast cancer, hormonal imbalances and menopause symptoms.
Obstetricians provide prenatal care for women and their babies before birth. Prenatal care includes monitoring the growth and health of the fetus through ultrasounds and checking the fetal heart rate. In some cases, especially high-risk pregnancies, doctor's offer genetic testing and testing of the amniotic fluid. Doctors also check the mother's health by monitoring blood work, blood pressure and heart rate, and weight gain.
Birth and Labor
Obstetricians deliver babies and perform other birth-related duties as needed, such as inducing labor, performing Cesarean section births and performing emergency surgery when needed. The doctor monitors the mother and the baby throughout childbirth, and oversees the administration of medications. Obstetricians must be alert to the patient and baby's conditions during childbirth and respond to changes. For example, the doctor must take appropriate action if the mother is bleeding uncontrollably, if the baby is not positioned correctly for birth or if the baby is not breathing at birth.
Many obstetricians work with women who are unable to conceive. They perform testing to determine what is causing the infertility and provide treatment options to help with conception. This may include medication, dietary changes or referrals to alternative therapies, such as acupuncture. They may also refer patients to fertility specialists.
Education and License
Obstetricians must successfully complete four years of medical school to receive an M.D., or doctor of medicine degree. They also must take the U.S. Medical Licensing Examination to obtain a license to practice medicine. In addition, obstetricians must complete a four-year residency program and take the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology written and oral exam to become board-certified to practice medicine as an obstetrician. They must maintain their license and certification by completing continuing education as required by states.
- ONet: Obstetricians and Gynecologists
- American Pregnancy Association: Choosing an Obstetrician
- County of Marin, California: Obstetrician/Gynecologist I/II
- Origins ObGyn: What is an Obstetrician
- Bureau of Labor Statistics: Physicians and Surgeons
- American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology: FAQs
- Medical Liability Monitor: Labor Pains, Liability Trends in Obstetrics
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