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Gynaecologist
Once you have completed your Medical Degree it is often desireable to specialise in a specific field. Why not consider going into Gynaecology?
Gynaecology is the branch of medicine dealing with the science of the physiological functions and diseases of women and young girls, especially those diseases and physiological functions that affect the reproductive system and the urogential system.
Gynaecologists diagnose, treat, manage, and work towards preventing conditions and diseases of the female reproductive system (such as menstrual disorders, menopause, sex hormone disturbances, infertility and contraception). As a Gynaecologist you might also work as an Obstetrician, specialising in childbirth and midwifery. A Gynaecologist also does tests for cancer in the uterine wall, the ovaries and cervix, which are the most common cancer sites in the female reproductive system. Two routine screening examinsations, cervical smear tests (or Pap smears, named after a certain Dr Papanicoloaou) and pelvic examinations, may detect gynaecological cancer - or conditions that may lead to it - long before the patient notices anything wrong.
A further responsibility of the Gynaecologist is to educate people regarding his profession and that of obstetrics. Carrying out important research is a further area of interest.
A Gynaecologist also works as an Obstetrician (specialist in childbirth and midwifery). They also educate people about gynaecology and obstetrics and may carry out important research in their field.
Specialist medicine studies can take up to 9 years and follow the following study route:
- Theoretical Training : 6 years
- Student internship: 2 years
- Community service: 1 year
- Post-graduate specialisation: additional 3 - 5 years depending on personal progress
- Sub-specialisation: additional 2 years
In the Cape, both UCT and Stellenbosch offer Medical degrees and offer specialisation.
Source: Ultimate Career Guide
Useful Information
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Career Snapshot Gynaecologist |
In Demand
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Qualification Required |
Work Outdoors |
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Maths Required |
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Science Required |
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This is a general guide - it is important to check admission requirements with the various training institutions first because entry requirements may vary.
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