Obstetricians and Gynecologists

Provide medical care related to pregnancy or childbirth. Diagnose, treat, and help prevent diseases of women, particularly those affecting the reproductive system. May also provide general care to women. May perform both medical and gynecological surgery functions.

SOC: 29-1218.00

Common Job Titles

  • MD (Medical Doctor)
  • OBGYN (Obstetrician and Gynecologist)
  • OBGYN Physician (Obstetrics and Gynecology Physician)
  • Physician

What You'll Need to Succeed

AI-generated

Key competencies for this occupation at a glance

  • KnowledgeEvaluate complex obstetric and gynecological conditions, diagnostic test results, and patient histories in clinical settings, integrating evidence-based medicine with patient-specific factors to guide treatment decisions.
  • KnowledgeAssess maternal-fetal health status and identify pregnancy complications using fetal monitors, ultrasound imaging, and clinical examination techniques.
  • KnowledgeSynthesize medical knowledge from diverse subspecialties including obstetrics, reproductive endocrinology, and oncology to develop comprehensive, individualized treatment plans for women across the reproductive lifespan.
  • Hands-onPerform gynecological and obstetric surgical procedures including cesarean sections, hysterectomies, and laparoscopic surgeries independently in operating room environments, using surgical robots and specialized instruments while ensuring patient safety.
  • KnowledgeInterpret complex diagnostic imaging, laboratory findings, and pathology reports to communicate diagnoses and prognoses effectively to patients and interdisciplinary care teams.
  • KnowledgeFormulate evidence-based treatment protocols and clinical pathways for obstetric emergencies and gynecological conditions collaborating with multidisciplinary teams including anesthesiologists, neonatologists, and nursing staff.
  • Hands-onExecute precisely diagnostic procedures such as colposcopy, hysteroscopy, and ultrasound-guided biopsies in outpatient and inpatient settings, adhering to established clinical protocols.
  • Hands-onCoordinate labor management and delivery techniques including forceps-assisted and vacuum-assisted deliveries under time-critical conditions, monitoring fetal and maternal vital signs continuously.
  • MindsetIntegrate patient-centered care principles with clinical guidelines and ethical considerations when counseling patients on reproductive health, pregnancy options, and treatment alternatives.
  • MindsetAdvocate for women's health and reproductive rights in clinical practice and community settings, respecting diverse cultural and personal values.
  • KnowledgeAssess patient compliance with treatment regimens and regulatory standards for documentation using electronic health record systems such as Epic and MEDITECH in accordance with healthcare regulations.
  • MindsetSupport patients and families through sensitive reproductive health issues including pregnancy loss, infertility, and cancer diagnoses demonstrating empathy and cultural competence while providing therapeutic counseling.

Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics

Annual wage data for Obstetricians and Gynecologists (2024)

Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)

19,900

Wage Distribution by Percentile

Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $94,750. 25th percentile: U.S. $188,130. 50th percentile: U.S. $239,200. 75th percentile: U.S. $239,200. 90th percentile: U.S. $239,200. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.

  • U.S.
MetricU.S.
10% of workers earn the following or less$94,750
10% of workers earn the following or more$239,200+
Workers on average earn$281,130

+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)

Skills & Requirements

Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance

  • Medicine and Dentistry5.0/5
  • Biology4.7/5
  • English Language4.4/5
  • Psychology4.2/5
  • Customer and Personal Service3.9/5
Skills & Requirements: Knowledge

Tools & Technology

Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation

In-Demand Technology

Frequently requested by employers in job postings

  • Epic Systems
  • MEDITECH software
  • Microsoft Excel
  • Microsoft Office software
  • eClinicalWorks EHR software

Technology Skills

  • AS Software AS-OBGYN
  • Acrendo Medical Software Ob/Gyn EMR
  • Allscripts Professional EHR
  • Alteer Premiere
  • Bizmatics PrognoCIS EMR
  • ChartWare EMR
  • Computer Systems Company R4 ACERT
  • Email software
Tools & Technology: Technology Skills

Tools & Equipment

  • Adson forceps
  • Allis forceps
  • Automated external defibrillators AED
  • Babcock forceps
  • Baby scales
  • Bandage scissors
  • Bipolar electrosurgical forceps
  • Blood collection syringes
Tools & Technology: Tools & Equipment