What is an OB/GYN? Obstetrics, Gynecology, and More

As you progress through your medical education, you’ll be exposed to a wide range of specialties—each offering a unique way to care for patients. One essential area you’ll encounter is women’s health, including obstetrics and gynecology, often referred to as OB/GYN.

But what exactly does an OB/GYN do, and what does it take to become one?

In this blog, we’ll explore the role of an OB/GYN, the types of procedures they perform, and the steps to pursue a career in this dynamic and impactful field.

What is an OB/GYN? 

An OB/GYN is a specialist in the women’s health field. But what does “OB/GYN” stand for? Put simply, OB/GYN refers to an Obstetrician-Gynecologist. This is a type of doctor who specializes in pregnancy, childbirth, and the female reproductive system.

Some doctors choose to focus solely on either obstetrics or gynecology, but many OB/GYNs practice both. This dual focus allows them to provide comprehensive care throughout a woman’s life, from adolescence through menopause and beyond.

The Difference Between Obstetrics and Gynecology

Obstetrics and gynecology are closely related fields, but they focus on different aspects of women’s health.

• Obstetrics is the branch of medicine caring for women and babies during pregnancy and childbirth. Obstetricians do not provide medical care beyond pregnancy.
• Gynecology is the treatment of female reproductive conditions such as menstrual disorders and infertility. Gynecologists do not deliver babies or treat pregnant women.

An OB/GYN is trained in both specialties, allowing them to care for patients throughout all stages of life—from routine reproductive care to pregnancy and postpartum support.

What Does an OB/GYN Do?

OB/GYNs have a broad scope of responsibilities, ranging from preventive care and routine exams to managing complex health conditions and performing surgical procedures.

OB/GYN Responsibilities

Most OB/GYNs are generalists and many serve as their patients’ primary care physicians. Between office practice and outpatient care, the responsibilities of an OB/GYN can include:

• Prenatal care — Monitoring the health of pregnant women and their developing babies throughout pregnancy.
• Labor and delivery — Managing childbirth, including labor progression and both vaginal and cesarean deliveries.
• Preventive care — Providing services such as birth control, immunizations, and regular screenings.
• Postpartum care — Supporting and treating patients after childbirth, both physically and emotionally.
• Gynecological or pelvic exams — Conducting routine pelvic exams, Pap smears, breast exams, and cervical cancer screenings.
• Diagnosis and treatment —Managing conditions related to the female reproductive system, including endometriosis, fibroids, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and sexually transmitted infections.

Procedures Performed By OB/GYNs

OB/GYNs are trained to perform a range of diagnostic, therapeutic, and surgical procedures, including:

• Ultrasounds — Using imaging to monitor pregnancy progression or assess reproductive health.
• Cesarean sections — Performing surgical deliveries when necessary.
• Hysterectomies — Surgically removing the uterus to treat conditions such as fibroids, cancer, or chronic pain.
• Colposcopy — Closely examining the cervix, vagina, and vulva for signs of disease.
• Infertility treatments — Assisting individuals or couples with conception through various medical interventions.

Conditions Managed By OB/GYNs

OB/GYNs diagnose and treat a wide range of conditions that affect women throughout their lives—from adolescence to post-menopause. These may include:

• Pregnancy complications — Managing issues such as gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, and preterm labor.
• Menstrual disorders — Treating irregular cycles, heavy bleeding, or severe menstrual pain.
• Reproductive health issues — Addressing concerns such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), endometriosis, and pelvic inflammatory disease (PID).
• Menopause — Providing support and treatment for symptoms like hot flashes, mood changes, and hormonal imbalances during and after menopause.

How to Become an OB/GYN

The path to becoming an obstetrician-gynecologist begins the same way as other physicians — by completing undergraduate studies then graduating from a four-year medical school like Trinity School of Medicine.

You must then complete your four-year residency training in obstetrics and gynecology, during which you will obtain practical experience in various healthcare settings while under the supervision of experienced doctors.

Following your residency, you will then need to pass the required examinations to become certified by the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology (ABOG). You will be required to sit maintenance exams every six years to keep your certification.

How Long Does it Take to Become an OB/GYN?

It typically takes 11-15 years of education and training after high school to become an OB/GYN. This includes:

1. Undergraduate education: Four years to earn a Bachelor's degree, usually with a focus on pre-medical courses.
2. Medical school: Four years to earn a Doctor of Medicine (MD) or Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) degree.
3. Residency training: Four years in an OB/GYN residency program, where physicians gain hands-on experience in both obstetrics and gynecology.

After completing the above, some physicians choose to pursue additional fellowship training in a subspecialty, like gynecologic oncology, which can take an additional two to four years.

Subspecialties in Obstetrics and Gynecology

According to the American College of Surgeons, the majority of OB/GYNs are generalists, treating both obstetric and gynecological needs. The American Board of Medical Specialties also recognizes seven subspecialties in this field:

1. Complex Family Planning: Assists patients with pregnancy planning and birth spacing, offering services related to contraception, miscarriage management, and abortion care.
2. Critical Care Medicine: Diagnoses and treats critically ill or injured patients requiring intensive care.
3. Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery: Treats disorders and injuries of the pelvic floor, including urinary incontinence and pelvic organ prolapse.
4. Gynecologic Oncology: Manages cancers of the reproductive system, such as ovarian, uterine, and cervical cancer.
5. Hospice and Palliative Medicine: Provides compassionate care to patients with life-limiting illnesses, focusing on comfort and quality of life.
6. Maternal-Fetal Medicine: Specializes in the care of high-risk pregnancies and complicated deliveries.
7. Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility: Diagnoses and treats infertility and hormonal disorders, often using methods such as in vitro fertilization (IVF).

Starting a Career in Obstetrics and Gynecology with Trinity School of Medicine

Ready to take the next step towards a fulfilling career in women's health? At Trinity School of Medicine, we offer a dynamic program designed to prepare you for success as an OB/GYN. Both our Dean and Associate Dean of Clinical Sciences are practicing gynecologic oncologists—bringing real-world expertise and mentorship to our students every step of the way.

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With expert faculty, hands-on training, and a supportive learning environment, you’ll gain the skills needed to make a lasting impact in your field. Contact us to get started or apply today.

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