“How many years does it take to become an OB-GYN?”

It is reassuring that a young student is interested of being and OB-GYN, or Gynecologist. It is a field where individuals are averting. The duration of study will be a minimum of 12 yrs. Four years to complete undergrad, 4 yrs of medical college, and 4-5 yrs of residency training. If one decides on further sub-specialization, may require an extra 3-4 yrs. Thus she should be prepared to have a long run for her money. Either field are co-important with its own challenges. Let her know it is a great aspiration and as the saying goes " a dirty job, someone has to do it". Hope this was helpful. All the best.

MD first then train for Board exam 5 to 7 years OB GYN includes gynaecology

To become a OB/GYN or gynecologist takes 12 years post graduation from high school- 4 years college, then 4 of medical school and then 4 years residency. Most doctors become Specialists in both obstetrics and gynecology then as they age and prefer not to be on call at all hours see only office visits and do surgery- stopping the obstetrics portion( pregnancy care and delivery). Hope this helps- good luck!

Hi,

I am so happy to read your question. Your sister deserves to be complimented! I have been an OB/GYN doctor for over 40 years and I can tell you it has been a very rewarding experience, because it demands every bit of your energy and talent all the time. I would do it all over and over again in a heart beat. Recently, I am more focused on teaching the next generation of OB/GYN doctors, our young residents in training, and have to tell you all of them are superb quality doctors. Over two-thirds are women!! This should encourage your sister even more! Here is what she can expect: After medical school, she has to enroll in an Obstetrics/Gynecology training program of a teaching hospital. There are no Gynecology or Obstetrics only programs. She has go through a 4-year training in an Obstetrics-Gynecology residency program. After completing the residency, she can start practicing OB/GYN right the way. That includes delivering babies, seeing Gyn patients, doing surgery, research, etc. Should she want to become a sub-specialist, she has the following options after 2-3 years of additional training: She can choose to become a fellow in these sub-specialities: Maternal-Fetal Medicine, GYN Oncology, Minimally-Invasive Surgery, and Uro-Gynecology. If she really wants to be a "gynecologist only," she should plan doing a fellowship in GYN Oncology (cancer sub speciality) or Uro-Gyn, treating patients for problems of urinary and pelvic anatomy, like incontinence or uterine prolapse, etc. As you see the opportunities almost endless. Takes time, but it is the best investment she can make. It sure was for me.

Wish her best of luck.

Dr. Miklos Toth

Depending upon your course. There are three to four years of college, four years of medical school, and four years of residency with a minimum of 12 months as the Chief Resident. Then your eduction continues with hours mandated by the American Congress of OB/GYN and the board of medicine for your state.

I enjoyed two years of internal medicine prior to my 4 years in OB/Gyn residency.