Obstestricians and gynecologists care for women before, during and after childbirth.
Obstetricians and gynecologists (OB/GYNs) provide women with medical care related to the reproductive system. They must undergo extensive training, but most make an excellent living. Obstetricians and gynecologists will experience a great job outlook through 2018, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Many can advance to managerial positions.
Duties
OB/GYNs provide such services as cervical and vaginal cancer screenings, testing for STDs, advising on family planning matters and treating illnesses related to the reproductive system. According to the BLS, OB/GYNs focus on women's illnesses such as breast or cervical cancer, urinary tract infections or hormonal ailments.
Education
OB/GYNs should earn their medical degree from an accredited medical school. According to State University, they must also become certified by the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology by completing a four-year residency program in obstetrics and gynecology, and passing a certification exam.
Environment
OB/GYNs work extended hours, including on-call shifts. They may work in physicians' offices, hospitals, universities, outpatient care centers or other medical facilities. Their working environment is usually clean and sterile.
Earnings
The BLS states that the average hourly wage for obstetricians and gynecologists as of May 2009 is $98.31. The average annual wage is $204,470. The top earners in the field work in physicians' offices, while the lowest earners work for colleges and universities.
Advancement
Experienced obstetricians and gynecologists can advance in their careers to supervisory positions within a hospital or practice. Some may become teachers, while others may choose to open their own clinics.
Outlook
According to the BLS, the job outlook for physicians and surgeons in general is expected to grow by 22 percent through the year 2018. Obstetricians and gynecologists will face excellent job prospects if they are willing to work in rural and lower income areas.
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