How to become an Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
Obstetricians and gynaecologists provide medical care before, during and after childbirth. Gynaecologists also diagnose, treat and assist in the prevention of disorders of the female reproductive system.
Personal requirements for an Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
- Good communication skills
- Self-confidence
- Able to adhere to high ethical standards
- Able to relate to people
- Compassionate towards others
- Enjoy working with people
- Able to cope with the physical demands of the job
- A high level of motivation and self-discipline
Education & Training for an Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
To become an obstetrician or gynaecologist, you have to study medicine at university. To get into these courses, you usually need to gain your Senior Secondary Certificate of Education with particularly good results. Prerequisite subjects, or assumed knowledge, in one or more of English, mathematics, biology, chemistry and physics are normally required. Some universities offer medicine as a double degree and may have additional prerequisites. Universities have different prerequisites and some have flexible entry requirements. Contact the institute you are interested in for more information.
Additional information
Following completion of the above courses, graduates must undertake one year of full-time employment (internship) at a recognised teaching hospital to be able to gain full registration as an obstetrician or gynaecologist with the Medical Board of Australia. Prior to commencing clinical placements, students will be required to undergo a National Police Check and a Working with Children Check, and provide evidence of immunisations. It is a legal requirement that graduates be registered with the Medical Board of Australia before practicing in any state or territory in Australia. For full details, visit their website.
Duties & Tasks of an Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
Obstetricians and gynaecologists:
- Examine patients to determine their disorder, illnesses or injuries
- Order and analyse laboratory tests, X-rays and diagnostic images and procedures
- Provide care for patients and prescribe and administer medication, treatments and remedial measures
- Provide pre-natal and post-natal care
- Follow best-practice guidelines and remain up-to-date with the latest research and technology.
Working conditions for an Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
Obstetricians and gynaecologists may have to work irregular shifts, with long, demanding hours. This may include working on weekends and at night, as well as being on call 24 hours a day.
Employment Opportunities for an Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
Obstetricians and gynaecologists work in a range of hospital settings. They may work in a public hospital or a private practice. They work in cities, suburbs and rural towns. Opportunities for graduates depend on a variety of factors, including birth and death rates, population levels and movements, changing patterns of illness and injury, technological advances in health care, the trend towards preventative medicine, and the cost of treatment and health insurance to the patient.
Specializations
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
Obstetricians and gynaecologists provide medical care before, during and after childbirth. Gynaecologists also diagnose, treat and assist in the prevention of disorders of the female reproductive system.
