1) Earn a bachelor's degree: This can be in any field, but many students choose to major in biology, chemistry, or a related science.
2) Take the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT): This standardized test is required for all applicants to medical school.
3) Attend medical school: Medical school typically lasts for 4 years. During this time, students will learn about human anatomy, physiology, pathology, and other medical topics.
4) Complete a residency in obstetrics and gynecology: Residency is a period of supervised clinical training that typically lasts for 4 years. During residency, OB-GYNs will learn how to diagnose and treat a variety of conditions, including pregnancy-related complications and gynecological disorders.
5) Become board certified: After completing residency, OB-GYNs can become board certified by the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology (ABOG). Board certification demonstrates that a physician has met certain standards of education and training.
Some OB-GYNs may also choose to pursue additional training in a subspecialty, such as maternal-fetal medicine, reproductive endocrinology, or gynecologic oncology. These subspecialties require an additional 1-2 years of fellowship training.
In the United States, OB-GYNs must hold a Doctor of Medicine (M.D.) or Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (D.O.) degree from an accredited medical school, complete an approved residency program, and pass the ABOG certification exam.