Obstetrics and Gynaecology Specialty Profile

Obstetrics and Gynaecology

Obstetrics and gynaecology (O&G) is a broad specialty which deals with the many facets of women’s health. Obstetricians are responsible for the health of mother and fetus during the prenatal, intra- and postpartum periods. This role may vary from routine outpatient monitoring of the normal pregnancy, to rapid decision making and intervention in times of obstetric emergencies such as severe pre-eclampsia or life-threatening postpartum haemorrhage. Gynaecologists focus on the diagnosis and treatment of disorders of the female reproductive system. Management of problems such as gynaecological malignancies, sexually transmitted diseases, infertility, sexual dysfunction and the menopause requires a doctor who is adept with both patient counseling and a broad range of diagnostic and therapeutic modalities. One of the main attractions of obstetrics and gynaecology is the integration of medical and surgical aspects of patient care.

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Obstetrics and Gynaecology Training Program

Training Program

The Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists is responsible for assessment and training. A comprehensive account of the training program may be found on the college website in the Training Handbook... more

Application process

A minimum of two years post graduate training is generally required prior to application, although exceptions to this are possible. Applications are made to college-approved hospitals in each state.... more

Length of Training

Total training time is six years full time or equivalent. This is comprised of four years of general training and a minimum two years of further training which may be used for subspecialisation, research or additional general training.... more

Cost of Training

Annual Training Fee (old curriculum) $915.00 Annual Training fee (new curriculum) $1,175.00 Basic Surgical Skills Workshop $595.00 Communication Skills Workshop $500.00 Distance Education Program Assessments $310.00 per unit In-Hospital Clinical Assessments Modules $290.00 per assessment Assessment Written Examination (Membership) $780.00... more

Availability/Competition for training positions

College surveys suggested a reduction in popularity and consequently trainee applicants in recent years. However, a resurgence in popularity has occurred in the last 3 years and the selection process has again been highly competitive. For example, in Victoria there... more

Flexibility in Training

Part time training is permitted at a minimum of 50% full time workload (except in year 1). Up to two years of interrupted training is permitted without loss of credit for previous training. Training must be completed within 11 years.... more

Obstetrics and Gynaecology Workplace

The workplace

O&Gs generally are referred patients from general practitioners. Their practice may take place in a number of different settings. These include the outpatient clinic, inpatient wards, operating theatre and delivery suite. Some O&Gs choose to subspecialise (approximately 14%) , and... more

The doctor-patient relationship

O&Gs form close relationships with many of their patients, who they often follow long term with regular visits. This is particularly the case during pregnancy and labour, and is often a source of great satisfaction for both doctor and patient.... more

Intellectual content

O&G is based upon a detailed knowledge of anatomy, reproductive physiology and endocrinology, foetal and neonatal physiology. Other key areas include genetics, pharmacology, microbiology, haematology and immunology relevant to the practice of obstetrics and gynaecology.... more

Medical indemnity

O&G is a high medicolegal risk specialty. The threat of litigation and rising insurance premiums have turned many specialists away from obstetric practice in particular. The average premium in 2006-07 for obstetricians was $54 535. A pattern of increasing retirement... more

Lifestyle and Practice Options

Many O&Gs work long and irregular hours, with significant on-call requirements, often with weekend disruption. However, there is a trend towards increasing availability of part-time and job share arrangements for maternity/paternity leave and family obligations. Public hospital hours are largely... more

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