Top 11 Obstetrician Certifications

Certifications for an obstetrician are important in the job market because they demonstrate to potential employers that the individual has the knowledge and skills necessary to provide quality care for patients. Certifications also show that the individual is up-to-date on current medical practices and standards, which can be a major factor in whether or not a potential employer decides to hire them. Additionally, certifications can be used as evidence of an individual’s commitment to their profession and may even increase their chances of receiving promotions or raises.

The purpose of this article is to review the top certifications for obstetricians and explain how they can help advance an obstetrician's career.

What are Obstetrician Certifications?

Obstetrician certification is a process through which obstetricians demonstrate their knowledge and competency in the field. It is administered by the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology (ABOG) and requires passing an examination, completing a certain amount of continuing medical education courses, and meeting other requirements.

Obtaining certification can be beneficial for both patients and obstetricians. For patients, certification provides assurance that their physician has met certain criteria to ensure that they are knowledgeable in the field of obstetrics. It also indicates that the physician has kept up-to-date with the latest developments in obstetrics, so they can provide care that is based on current best practices. For obstetricians, certification can help them stand out from others in the same field, as it provides evidence of their commitment to excellence in patient care. Additionally, many insurance companies may require or give preference to physicians who have obtained board certification.

Pro Tip: When considering obstetrician certification, be sure to research the requirements for your state or region. Most states require a minimum of four years of post-graduate medical education and completion of a residency program in obstetrics and gynecology. Other requirements may include successful completion of a board examination, as well as continuing medical education credits and recertification every few years.

Related: What does an Obstetrician do?

Top 11 Obstetrician Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Obstetricians today.

1. Board Certification in Obstetrics and Gynecology (BCOG)

Board Certification in Obstetrics and Gynecology (BCOG) is a process of certification by the American Board of Obstetrics & Gynecology (ABOG) that demonstrates a physician has met the highest standards of medical education, knowledge, and experience in obstetrics and gynecology. It is a voluntary process that requires physicians to demonstrate their knowledge, skills, and abilities in order to practice safely and effectively.

The BCOG process generally takes about two years to complete. To become board certified, physicians must first complete an approved residency program in obstetrics and gynecology. Then they must pass both written and oral exams administered by ABOG. After passing these exams, physicians are eligible for certification.

The cost of becoming board certified can vary depending on the individual's situation. Generally speaking, there are fees associated with taking the written and oral exams as well as any additional training or educational requirements needed to meet the criteria for certification. Additionally, some states may require additional licensing fees or other costs associated with obtaining certification in that state.

In addition to completing the necessary steps outlined above, physicians must also maintain their certification through continuing medical education (CME). The ABOG requires all board-certified obstetricians/gynecologists to complete at least 150 hours of CME every three years in order to remain certified.

2. American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology (ABOG)

The American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology (ABOG) is the certifying board for obstetrician-gynecologists in the United States. It is a non-profit organization that was established in 1933 to ensure that physicians practicing obstetrics and gynecology have met rigorous standards of training and practice.

In order to become certified by ABOG, a physician must first complete an accredited residency program in obstetrics and gynecology, which typically takes four years. After completing their residency, physicians must then pass a comprehensive written examination administered by ABOG. This exam covers topics such as reproductive health, gynecologic surgery, and medical ethics. The exam is offered twice per year at various locations throughout the United States.

Once a physician has passed the written exam, they must then pass an oral examination administered by ABOG. The oral examination covers clinical scenarios related to obstetrics and gynecology and is designed to assess a physician's knowledge and skills in these areas. The oral exam is offered once per year at various locations throughout the United States.

The cost of taking both exams varies depending on location but typically ranges from $2,000-$3,000 USD for both exams combined. Once a physician passes both exams successfully they will be awarded certification from ABOG and may use the initials "FACOG" (Fellow of the American College of Obstetricians & Gynecologists) after their name as recognition of their accomplishment.

3. Maternal-Fetal Medicine Subspecialty Certificate (MFM)

Maternal-Fetal Medicine (MFM) is a subspecialty of obstetrics and gynecology that focuses on the care of pregnant women and their unborn babies. It is a specialized field of medicine that provides comprehensive care to pregnant women and their fetuses, from preconception counseling to postpartum follow-up. The MFM Subspecialty Certificate is an advanced certification program for physicians who specialize in maternal-fetal medicine.

The MFM Subspecialty Certificate requires successful completion of both written and oral examinations administered by the American Board of Obstetrics & Gynecology (ABOG). The program typically takes four years to complete, including two years of clinical training in an approved MFM fellowship program, followed by two years of practice as an attending physician in a recognized MFM practice setting.

To get the MFM Subspecialty Certificate, physicians must first complete all requirements for board certification in obstetrics and gynecology. After completing this step, they must then apply to an accredited MFM fellowship program and successfully complete two years of clinical training. Upon successful completion of the fellowship program, they must pass both written and oral examinations administered by ABOG before being eligible for certification.

The cost for obtaining the MFM Subspecialty Certificate varies depending on the individual’s circumstances; however, some common costs include application fees, exam fees, travel expenses associated with attending conferences or taking exams, and any other related expenses such as books or study materials.

4. Fetal Medicine Subspecialty Certificate (FM)

The Fetal Medicine Subspecialty Certificate (FM) is a post-graduate medical qualification awarded by the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RCOG). It is designed to provide advanced training in the management of fetal medicine, including the diagnosis and treatment of fetal abnormalities.

The FM certificate takes approximately two years to complete, depending on the individual’s progress. To obtain the certificate, applicants must first complete a minimum of six months’ clinical experience in a recognised fetal medicine unit before being eligible to sit the RCOG examination.

The cost for obtaining the FM certificate varies depending on where you are studying and which country you are from. Generally, there are fees associated with tuition, exam registration and other administrative costs. The total cost can range from £2,000 to £3,500 or more.

In addition to completing the required coursework and passing the exam, applicants must also demonstrate competence in clinical practice through an approved clinical audit project or research paper. This evidence will be assessed during a viva voce examination at an RCOG-approved centre.

5. Advanced Life Support in Obstetrics (ALSO)

Advanced Life Support in Obstetrics (ALSO) is a comprehensive program designed to provide healthcare professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to manage obstetric emergencies. It is based on the latest evidence-based guidelines, and emphasizes hands-on practice of key skills. The program focuses on the recognition, management, and prevention of maternal and fetal complications during labor and delivery.

The program consists of two parts: an online course and a face-to-face workshop. The online course provides an overview of obstetric emergencies, including risk factors, clinical signs and symptoms, diagnosis, management strategies, team communication techniques, and patient education. The face-to-face workshop provides hands-on practice in managing simulated obstetric emergencies using high fidelity mannequins.

It typically takes about 12 hours to complete the entire ALSO program. To get started with the program you must first register for the online course through the American Academy of Family Physicians website or through your hospital or medical center’s training department. Once you have completed the online course you will be eligible to attend a face-to-face workshop at an approved ALSO training site near you.

The cost of completing the ALSO program varies depending on where you take it from but generally ranges from $250-$500 USD for both parts combined.

6. Neonatal Resuscitation Program (NRP)

The Neonatal Resuscitation Program (NRP) is an educational program developed by the American Academy of Pediatrics and the American Heart Association. It is designed to teach healthcare providers how to effectively resuscitate newborns in emergency situations. The program consists of both a classroom-based course and a hands-on skills session.

The NRP classroom course typically takes about 6 hours to complete, and covers topics such as neonatal anatomy and physiology, assessment of the newborn, resuscitation techniques, airway management, pharmacology, and post-resuscitation care. The hands-on skills session takes about 3 hours to complete and involves practicing various resuscitation scenarios on manikins.

To get certified in NRP, individuals must first take the classroom course. After completing the course, they can then register for a hands-on skills session through their local hospital or medical center.

The cost of the NRP certification varies depending on the provider’s location and institution. Generally speaking, it costs around $150-$200 for both the classroom course and hands-on skills session combined.

7. Advanced Perinatal/Neonatal Nursing Certification (APNNC)

Advanced Perinatal/Neonatal Nursing Certification (APNNC) is a certification program offered by the National Certification Corporation (NCC). It is designed to recognize and validate the knowledge, skills, and abilities of nurses who specialize in caring for pregnant women and newborns. The APNNC certification is valid for five years and requires continuing education to maintain.

To obtain the APNNC certification, candidates must meet certain eligibility requirements including having an active RN license in the United States or its territories, at least two years of full-time experience as an RN in perinatal/neonatal nursing within the past three years, and completion of 30 contact hours of continuing education in perinatal/neonatal nursing within the past three years. Candidates must also pass a written exam administered by NCC.

The cost to apply for the APNNC certification is $385 for members of NCC or $485 for non-members. This fee includes the application fee, exam fees, and processing fees.

8. Certified Nurse-Midwife (CNM)

Certified Nurse-Midwife (CNM) is a specialized type of advanced practice registered nurse who has completed a graduate-level program in midwifery and is certified by the American Midwifery Certification Board (AMCB). CNMs provide care to women throughout their lifespan, including prenatal care, labor and delivery services, postpartum care, gynecological care, family planning services, and primary health care.

It typically takes two to three years to become a Certified Nurse-Midwife. The process involves completing an accredited Master's of Science in Nursing (MSN) or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree program with a midwifery specialty track. After graduation, CNMs must pass the AMCB certification exam before they can practice as a Certified Nurse-Midwife.

The cost of becoming a Certified Nurse-Midwife varies depending on the school and program chosen. Tuition for MSN programs range from $10,000-$50,000 per year while tuition for DNP programs range from $20,000-$100,000 per year. In addition to tuition costs, students should also factor in fees for books and supplies as well as living expenses during their time in school.

9. Certified Professional Midwife (CPM)

A Certified Professional Midwife (CPM) is a midwife who has met the standards for certification set by the North American Registry of Midwives (NARM). The CPM credential is the only midwifery credential that requires knowledge and skills in out-of-hospital birth settings. CPMs are trained to provide care for women during pregnancy, labor, delivery, and postpartum.

It typically takes two to three years of full-time study to become a CPM. During this time, aspiring midwives must complete an accredited midwifery education program and pass the NARM written and practical exams. After passing these exams, they must also demonstrate their ability to practice safely in an out-of-hospital setting through clinical experience with at least 30 births.

To become a CPM, you must first complete an accredited midwifery education program that meets the standards set by NARM. After completing your education program, you will need to take and pass both the NARM written exam and practical exam. You will then need to demonstrate your ability to practice safely in an out-of-hospital setting through clinical experience with at least 30 births. Once all of these requirements have been met, you can apply for certification as a CPM through NARM's website.

The cost of becoming a CPM varies depending on the type of educational program you choose and other factors such as living expenses during your studies. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $3,000-$10,000 or more for tuition alone. Additionally, there are fees associated with taking the NARM exams and applying for certification which can range from $100-$500 depending on where you live.

10. International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC)

An International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) is a health care professional who specializes in the clinical management of breastfeeding. IBCLCs are certified by the International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners (IBLCE), which is an independent, non-profit organization that sets and administers certification standards for lactation consultants worldwide.

To become an IBCLC, individuals must meet certain educational requirements, complete an extensive exam, and demonstrate a commitment to ongoing education. The educational requirements include at least 90 hours of coursework in the sciences related to lactation and infant feeding, as well as at least 25 hours of supervised clinical experience.

The exam consists of two parts: a written exam and a practical exam. The written exam covers topics such as anatomy and physiology, nutrition, psychology and counseling, communication skills, pharmacology, medical conditions affecting breastfeeding, and professional ethics. The practical exam assesses the candidate’s ability to apply theoretical knowledge in real-life situations.

The cost for taking the IBCLC examination varies by country; however, it typically costs between $400-$600 USD. In addition to the cost of taking the exam itself, candidates must also pay for any necessary coursework or supervised clinical experience required for certification.

Once certified, IBCLCs must renew their credentials every five years by completing continuing education credits and passing a recertification examination every 10 years.

11. American College of Nurse-Midwives Certification Council’s Certified Midwife Credentialing Program (CMCCP).

The American College of Nurse-Midwives Certification Council’s Certified Midwife Credentialing Program (CMCCP) is a certification program for midwives that was developed to recognize the knowledge and skills required to provide quality care to women and their families. This program is designed to ensure that midwives meet certain standards of practice and demonstrate competency in providing evidence-based midwifery care.

In order to become certified, applicants must first complete an accredited midwifery education program, which typically takes two years. Once the educational requirements are met, the applicant must then pass the CMCCP exam. The exam consists of multiple choice questions and a clinical simulation component.

Once an applicant has successfully passed the exam, they will receive their Certified Midwife credential from the American College of Nurse-Midwives Certification Council. This credential is valid for five years and can be renewed by taking continuing education courses or retaking the CMCCP exam.

The cost of becoming certified through the CMCCP varies depending on where you take your exam and what type of preparation materials you use. Generally speaking, it costs between $400-$600 for registration fees, application fees, and study materials.

Do You Really Need a Obstetrician Certificate?

Yes, you do need an Obstetrician Certificate if you wish to work as an obstetrician. An Obstetrician Certificate is a professional qualification that demonstrates your knowledge and skills in the field of obstetrics. The certificate is awarded upon successful completion of the necessary studies and exams, which are typically administered by a professional board or college.

An obstetrician provides care for pregnant women from conception to delivery, and also provides postnatal care for both mothers and newborns. The field of obstetrics requires a great deal of knowledge about anatomy, physiology, pathology, pharmacology, nutrition and psychology in order to provide the best possible care for each patient. As such, an Obstetrician Certificate serves as proof that you have the qualifications necessary to practice in this specialized field.

Obstetricians must also be licensed by their respective state medical boards before they can practice medicine. To become licensed, applicants must pass a series of examinations including written tests on topics such as medical terminology and ethics. In addition to passing these tests, applicants must demonstrate their clinical competence through practical experience in obstetrics such as delivering babies or providing prenatal care.

In addition to providing quality healthcare services to pregnant women and their families, an obstetrician should also possess excellent interpersonal skills so they can effectively communicate with patients and their families during times of stress or crisis. Having an Obstetrician Certificate demonstrates that you have the proper training and qualifications needed to provide quality patient care.

In conclusion, having an Obstetrician Certificate is essential if you wish to work as an obstetrician as it ensures that you possess the necessary knowledge and skills required for this specialized field of medicine.

Related: Obstetrician Resume Examples

FAQs About Obstetrician Certifications

1. What qualifications are required to become an obstetrician?

Answer: To become an obstetrician, you must complete a four-year medical degree program, followed by a three-year residency in obstetrics and gynecology. You also must obtain certification from the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology (ABOG) or another recognized medical board.

2. How do I renew my obstetrician certification?

Answer: To renew your certification, you must take part in continuing education activities and pass the recertification examination administered by ABOG or other relevant medical boards every seven to ten years.

3. What is included in the exam for obstetrician certifications?

Answer: The exam typically consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as anatomy, physiology, pathology, pharmacology, diagnosis and management of various conditions related to pregnancy and childbirth. It also includes questions on clinical skills such as fetal monitoring and delivery techniques.

4. How much does it cost to get certified as an obstetrician?

Answer: The cost of certification depends on the type of certification you are pursuing; however, most certifications require a fee ranging from $200-$500 USD paid directly to ABOG or other relevant medical boards.

5. Is there any way I can get a discount on my certification fees?

Answer: Many medical societies offer discounts for members who are seeking certification in their field; it is worth exploring these options before paying full price for your certification fees.