How Long Does It Take to Become a Gynecologist?

Becoming a gynecologist typically takes around 12 years of education and training after completing high school. It's worth noting that the duration of the training can vary depending on the institution. Also, some gynecologists may choose to do more or less than the typical duration of the fellowship.

The main steps to becoming a gynecologist include the following

• Step 1. Completing a four-year undergraduate degree in a related field such as biology, chemistry, or pre-medicine.
• Step 2. Attending four years of medical school to earn a Medical Doctor (MD) degree or Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) degree.
• Step 3. Completing a four-year residency program in obstetrics and gynecology. This training typically includes both inpatient and outpatient care, as well as rotations in related specialties such as reproductive endocrinology, maternal-fetal medicine, and gynecologic oncology.
• Step 4. Passing written and oral exams to become board certified in obstetrics and gynecology.
• Step 5. Obtaining a medical license from the state in which you wish to practice.

So in total, it will take around 12 years of education and training to become a gynecologist, including four years of undergraduate education, four years of medical school, and four years of residency.

However, many gynecologists choose to pursue additional training or certifications to specialize in a specific area of gynecology, which can add additional years to the process. Some of the most common areas of specialization include:

• Reproductive endocrinology and infertility: This specialization focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of infertility, as well as the endocrine disorders that can affect fertility. Additional training in this area typically includes two to three years of fellowship training.
• Maternal-fetal medicine: This specialization focuses on the care of women with high-risk pregnancies, including those with medical conditions such as diabetes or hypertension. Additional training in this area typically includes two to three years of fellowship training.
• Gynecologic oncology: This specialization focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of cancers of the female reproductive system. Additional training in this area typically includes two to three years of fellowship training.
• Urogynecology and pelvic reconstructive surgery: This specialization focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of pelvic organ prolapse and urinary incontinence. Additional training in this area typically includes two to three years of fellowship training.

Moreover, except for the additional training, many gynecologists choose to pursue additional certifications, such as the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology (ABOG) certification in a subspecialty area.

In summary, becoming a gynecologist typically takes around 12 years of education and training after completing high school, but some gynecologists may choose to pursue additional subspecialty training or certifications, which can add additional years to the process.