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Obstetricians and Gynecologists

Provide medical care related to pregnancy or childbirth. Diagnose, treat, and help prevent diseases of women, particularly those affecting the reproductive system. May also provide general care to women. May perform both medical and gynecological surgery functions.

What you’d do

  • Treat diseases of female organs.
  • Care for and treat women during prenatal, natal, and postnatal periods.
  • Analyze records, reports, test results, or examination information to diagnose medical condition of patient.
  • Perform cesarean sections or other surgical procedures as needed to preserve patients' health and deliver babies safely.
  • Collect, record, and maintain patient information, such as medical histories, reports, or examination results.
  • Explain procedures and discuss test results or prescribed treatments with patients.
  • Prescribe or administer therapy, medication, and other specialized medical care to treat or prevent illness, disease, or injury.
  • Monitor patients' conditions and progress and reevaluate treatments as necessary.

Skills that matter

  • Critical Thinking
  • Reading Comprehension
  • Active Learning
  • Active Listening
  • Complex Problem Solving
  • Judgment and Decision Making

How to get there

Extensive preparation: most need graduate school, such as a master's degree or higher

Also called

  • MD (Medical Doctor)
  • OBGYN (Obstetrician and Gynecologist)
  • OBGYN Physician (Obstetrics and Gynecology Physician)
  • Physician
  • GYN (Gynecologist)
  • OB (Obstetrician)

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