What does a Gynecologist do?
Published 3 min read
A gynecologist is a doctor who specializes in the female reproductive system.
Gynecologist job duties include:
- Conducting annual exams and Pap smears
- Diagnosing and treating STDs
- Diagnosing and treating pelvic inflammatory disease
- Diagnosing and treating uterine fibroids
- Diagnosing and treating endometriosis
- Diagnosing and treating menopause-related issues
- Diagnosing and treating ovarian cysts
- Providing contraception counseling
- Performing surgical procedures, such as hysterectomies
Gynecologist Job Requirements
Gynecologists are medical doctors who specialize in women's health, with a particular focus on the female reproductive system. In order to become a gynecologist, one must first complete a four-year undergraduate degree, followed by four years of medical school. After medical school, gynecologists must complete a four-year residency program in obstetrics and gynecology. Some gynecologists may also choose to complete a fellowship in a subspecialty such as reproductive endocrinology or urogynecology. In order to practice medicine, all physicians must be licensed by their state's medical board.
Gynecologist Skills
- Patience
- Empathy
- Attention to Detail
- Good Hand-Eye Coordination
- Physical Stamina
- Good bedside manner
- Thoroughness
- Excellent communication skills
- Ability to work well under pressure
- Problem-solving skills
- Critical thinking skills
Related: Top Gynecologist Skills: Definition and Examples
How to become a Gynecologist
Gynecologists are medical doctors who specialize in the female reproductive system. They provide care for women of all ages, from adolescence through menopause. Gynecologists can also be obstetricians, meaning they deliver babies.
To become a gynecologist, you must first complete a four-year undergraduate degree. During your undergraduate years you will take classes such as biology, chemistry, and physics. You will also need to complete a year of English and a year of math. After completing your undergraduate degree, you must then attend medical school for four years. During medical school you will take classes such as anatomy, physiology, and pathology. You will also complete clinical rotations in various medical specialties, including obstetrics and gynecology. After completing medical school, you must then complete a three-year residency in obstetrics and gynecology. During your residency you will receive training in all aspects of female reproductive health care, including prenatal care, labor and delivery, and postpartum care. You will also have the opportunity to learn about gynecologic surgery and cancer treatment.
After completing your residency, you will be eligible to take the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology exam. Once you pass this exam, you will be certified as a specialist in obstetrics and gynecology.
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