American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology 2915 Vine Street, Suite 300 Dallas, TX 75204-1069 Tel: (214) 871-1619 www.abog.org

An Obstetrician/Gynecologist possesses special knowledge, skills and professional capability in the medical and surgical care of the female reproductive system and associated disorders. This physician serves as a consultant to other physicians and as a primary physician for women.

Training Required: Four years plus two years in clinical practice before certification is complete.

Subspecialties for Obstetrics and Gynecology

Certification in one of the following subspecialties requires additional training and examination.

• Critical Care Medicine
  An Obstetrician/Gynecologist who specializes in Critical Care Medicine diagnoses, treats and supports female patients with multiple organ dysfunction. This specialist may have administrative responsibilities for intensive care units and may also facilitate and coordinate patient care among the primary physician, the critical care staff and other specialists.
  
  
• Gynecologic Oncology
  An Obstetrician/Gynecologist who provides consultation and comprehensive management of patients with gynecologic cancer, including those diagnostic and therapeutic procedures necessary for the total care of the patient with gynecologic cancer and resulting complications.
  
  
• Hospice and Palliative Medicine
  An Obstetrician/Gynecologist with special knowledge and skills to prevent and relieve the suffering experienced by patients with life-limiting illnesses. This specialist works with an interdisciplinary hospice or palliative care team to maximize quality of life while addressing the physical, psychological, social and spiritual needs of both patient and family throughout the course of the disease, including through the dying process and subsequent family grieving. This care can occur within or outside of a formal hospice or palliative care team. This specialist has expertise in the assessment of patients with advanced disease and catastrophic injury; the relief of distressing symptoms; the coordination of interdisciplinary patient and family-centered care in diverse settings; the use of specialized care systems including hospice; the management of the imminently dying patient; and legal and ethical decision making in end-of-life care.
  
  
• Maternal and Fetal Medicine
  An Obstetrician/Gynecologist who cares for, or provides consultation on, patients with complications of pregnancy. This specialist has advanced knowledge of the obstetrical, medical and surgical complications of pregnancy, and their effect on both the mother and the fetus. The specialist also possesses expertise in the most current diagnostic and treatment modalities used in the care of patients with complicated pregnancies.
  
  
• Reproductive Endocrinology/Infertility
  The Reproductive Endocrinologist is capable of managing complex problems relating to reproductive endocrinology and infertility.
  

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