What are potential challenges one might face when becoming an obstetrician?
I am asking this question, because I would love to be aware of some challenges I'll be facing in the nearer future. I want to know from an Obstetrician themselves or at least a doctor that believes they know, so I can make a final decision.
1 answer
Daniela’s Answer
Hi Nicquela,
OB/GYN's focus solely on women's health. They will perform a variety of tasks associated with this area of medicine. They will consult with patients on an appointment basis in order to determine their needs. They will observe the female anatomy and determine if there are any issues that need to be corrected. OB/GYN's work with women who are pregnant throughout the entire process. They consult with pregnant women early on in the pregnancy and monitor the health of the child. The OB/GYN will also oversee the delivery process as well as the aftercare process for the woman.
OB/GYN's are specialists in a number of different areas in regards to the female anatomy. They will check women for breast cancer, cervical cancer, and perform Pap smears. They can diagnose urinary tract problems, pelvic problems, as well as hormonal imbalances in women.
An OB/GYN will have a designated work schedule that they try to adhere to. However, because of the nature of the job, they will often have to work more than 60 hours per week. They will have to be available at all hours of the day and night in order to accommodate women that are near childbirth. This makes the job of OB/GYN a very demanding one overall.
As an OB/GYN, you will be eligible for advancement opportunities at certain times. If you work in a group practice, there will be opportunities for management over other doctors. Many OB/GYN's also choose to start their own practices. This enables them to make their own rules and set their own schedules while still earning a great salary. In order to accomplish this, you will have to develop a good reputation in the industry and gain experience working in the job.
Skills
Adaptability
Decisiveness
Leadership skills
Good communication skills
Ability to sympathise and be non-judgmental
Work effectively as part of a team
Rewards
Breadth of medicine covered
Involvement in deliveries
Scope for development of strong doctor-patient relationships
Varied and challenging
Challenges
Long and unpredictable hours, heavy on-call duties
Demanding and stressful at times but enjoyable at the end
More in: http://www.cvtips.com/career-choice/obgyn-career-information.html
http://bma.org.uk/developing-your-career/medical-student/an-insider-guide-to-medical-specialties/nhs-career-choices/obstetrics-and-gynaecology
All the best!!