A gynecologist is a type of medical doctor that specializes in women's health. Most gynecologists are also obstetricians, physicians who care for pregnant women and deliver babies.
Function
To screen for diseases gynecologists perform examinations of women's breasts and reproductive tract and order routine diagnostic tests. Gynecologists also diagnose and prescribe treatment for illnesses like vaginal or breast infections and cervical cancer.
Types
Gynecologist may specialize in a number of fields like caring for women with complications during pregnancy (maternal fetal medicine), cancers of the reproductive organs (gynecologic oncology), feminine hormone problems (gynecologic endocrinology) and infertility.
Education
Education requirements include a bachelor's degree, typically in a scientific field, a four-year medical school program, and passing the U.S. Medical Licensing Examination.
Residency
After receiving a license, doctors complete a four-year residency program that provides education specifically in gynecology and obstetrics, and at the completion of this program, take an examination from the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology to receive certification in the specialty. Those that wish to specialize further then complete a fellowship that lasts one or more years and take one final exam through ABOG.
Compensation
As of April 2009, the median annual salary for gynecologists was $236,411, according to Salary.com.
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