Interested in women's health? Learn more here.

If you're reading this, you probably want to become a doctor that specializes in women’s health.

Healthcare professionals that focus on providing care to women are typically compassionate and understanding people. But it’s equally important to understand your options.

Of those occupations specifically related to women’s health, the two most widely-known positions are obstetricians and gynecologists. Matter of fact, you may have seen the healthcare profession names consolidated down to just OB/GYN in your local hospital.

Despite this joint abbreviation, the two positions are not the same.

What is an Obstetrician?

In general, obstetricians are doctors that guide women through pregnancy. Typically, an obstetrician starts seeing a patient as soon as they find out they are pregnant. From there, obstetricians take the time to address side effects and concerns associated with carrying a baby for nine months.

Once it’s time, obstetricians take part in the actual birth. Their goal is to ensure the newborn makes it safely from the womb out into the new world. Afterward, obstetricians may check in on the mother and her infant until a neonatal doctor is assigned.

For a more in-depth look at objectives obstetricians cover, see the list below:

• Monitors health of mother and infant during pregnancy
• Runs tests to see if potential health issues are likely to arise
• Provides advice about how to maintain health, such as what to eat, avoid, meds, and exercise regimens
• Give guidance on dealing with unwanted side effects, such as body pain, heartburn, and morning sickness
• Address any other concerns or questions
• Review what to anticipate when it's time for the baby to be born
• Take part in the delivery
• Keep track of mother and infant vital signs

In addition, obstetricians are typically on-call in case a woman goes into labor.

What is a Gynecologist?

Addressing the female reproductive system is complex enough on its own, no pregnancy required. In general, gynecologists are there to women’s reproductive health issues.

Gynecologists are responsible for:

• Mammograms
• Pap Tests
• Cancer Screens
• Birth Control Operations
• Menopause Strategies
• Addressing Abnormal Bleeding
• Providing Menstruation Relief

Over time, this monitoring process typically forms a long-term patient and doctor relationship. That said, gynecologists are usually not on-call for patient emergencies.

As you can see, obstetricians and gynecologists are not the same. Obstetricians usually do not form long-term patient relationships, yet get to be there during a once-in-a-lifetime moment. On the other hand, gynecologists are there for the long-haul if a patient chooses to forge that relationship.

The pay is similar at an average of $225,000 per year.