Gynaecologists are medical doctors that deal in women’s health and specialize in diseases and illnesses related to the female reproductive system. These include diseases related to hormonal changes, urinary tract infections, breast problems and some types of cancers like ovarian or cancer of the cervix.
As opposed to the general perception they don’t just deliver babies, it is in fact one of the many things that a female would consult a gynaecologist for. Gynaecologists who are certified in both gynaecology and obstetrics are referred to as OB/GYN.
How Can You Become a Gynaecologist?
Becoming a gynaecologist Melbourne takes a lot of hard work and persistence. First you have to earn a bachelor’s degree in a science subject like chemistry, biology and other related sciences. Then in the senior year of your undergrad degree you must take a Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) in order to get admitted to a medical school once you get done with your undergraduate degree.
After you are done with your undergrad and have been accepted into a medical school, you will go through four years of academics. Once you have cleared your exams you will get into residency or fellowship in the field of gynaecology for around 3 to 7 years. And once you are done with your specialty residency in gynaecology, you will be considered a gynaecologist. The specialty training you will receive during the residency is going to include:
- Patient care before pregnancy, during and after delivering the baby.
- Genetic counseling and genetics.
- Female health related to hormones, reproductive system, sexual functionality and breast health.
- Female related cancer screening.
- Treating females for hormonal disorder and infections etc.
While training to be a gynaecologist, you can undergo surgical training too.
Common Procedures Done by Gynaecologists
As a gynaecologist, you will be trained to carry out certain diagnostic and surgical procedures. Such as:
Diagnostic Procedures
- Ultrasounds and scanning.
- Pap smear tests.
- Microscopic examination of the cervix known as Colposcopy.
- Endometrial Biopsy which involves taking a sample of the lining of the uterus.
- Hysteroscopy which involves examination of the uterus with the use of an endoscope.
Surgical Procedures
- Preparing the patient for a surgery.
- Minor surgeries like sterilization.
- Major surgeries like removal of fibroids from the uterus.
- Laparoscopy which is a keyhole abdominal procedure used for surgical as well as diagnostic purposes.
- Postoperative care.
What Does It Take To Become a Gynaecologist?
Becoming a medical doctor is a tough job. First you have to go through medical school which is a challenge in itself and then the residency. Both the studies and the residency involve a lot of stress, requires hard work and persistence. But you also have to have a personality that resonates with your patients. The best gynaecologists in Melbourne tend to deal with female health problems that can be very intimate and emotionally challenging for the patients. As their doctor you must be able to have compassion to better understand your patient’s condition.