Career Growth Opportunities for OB/GYNs
An OB/GYN, or obstetrician/gynecologist, performs well-woman checkups, counsels women regarding planning their families, treats various reproductive conditions, and delivers babies. OB/GYNs have a medical degree that includes a four-year residency in order to practice. After some time working in this field, some physicians may wish to expand their career horizons. One option may be to focus on training upcoming physicians or health care professionals as an educator. Another option would be to consider some of the specialty areas of the OB/GYN field. Some information on these various fields is presented here.
| Job Title | Average Salary | Job Growth (2016-2026)* | Education or Experience |
|---|---|---|---|
| Postsecondary Teacher, Health Specialties | $122,890 (2017)* | 26% | Medical Experience |
| Reproductive Endocrinologist | $255,049 (2015)** | 16% (OB/GYNs) | Fellowship and ABOG certification |
| Gynecologic Oncologist | $321,606 (2018)*** | 16% (OB/GYNs) | Fellowship and ABOG certification |
| Maternal-Fetal Medicine Specialist | $365,659 (2018)*** | 16% (OB/GYNs) | Fellowship and ABOG certification |
Sources: *U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), **Glassdoor.com, ***PayScale.com
Career Information
Postsecondary Teacher in Health Specialties
One career option for obstetricians who wish to advance in their field is to consider a career as a college instructor in the health sciences. Postsecondary teachers develop course syllabi and instruct students in their area of specialty. They must assess students' performance and advise students concerning their performance in class and the pursuit of other educational goals. Some postsecondary teachers also conduct research in their field of expertise. Postsecondary teachers in the health sciences typically have experience in the field. In addition to the M.D. or D.O., a Ph.D. might be desired by some employers.
Reproductive Endocrinologist
Some OB/GYNs may wish to choose a subspecialty in order to advance their career. One option to consider is that of a reproductive endocrinologist. These physicians focus on the treatment of hormone-related gynecological issues, difficulties with menopause, and infertility. Reproductive endocrinologists must be well-versed in various forms of assisted reproductive technology, including in vitro fertilization and cryopreservation. To become a reproductive endocrinologist, OB/GYNs must complete a three-year fellowship after the obstetric residency. They must then complete a written and oral test for certification from the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology (ABOG).
Gynecologic Oncologist
Another subspecialty which gynecologists may consider is that of a gynecologic oncologist. These professionals focus upon the treatment of gynecologic cancers through such treatment modalities as surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy. They may also participate in research studies related to the treatment of gynecologic cancers. In order to achieve this specialty, the physician must complete a three-year fellowship in gynecologic oncology and pass the certification requirements of the ABOG.
Maternal-Fetal Medicine Specialist
Another obstetric role to consider would be that of a maternal-fetal medicine specialist. These doctors are specialized in high-risk pregnancies. They make prenatal diagnoses and offer therapeutic procedures. Maternal-fetal medicine specialists must have a strong understanding of genetics and genetic counseling and be able to perform a range of prenatal tests. To become a maternal-fetal medicine specialist, the obstetrician must complete a three-year fellowship and seek certification from the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology.
