A Comprehensive Guide to OB/GYN Boards

Posted on: 22 February 2023

The OB/GYN boards are among the most important tests a medical student will have to take in their career. They test the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to practice obstetrics and gynecology. Here's what you need to know about preparing for OB/GYN boards.

What Is an OB/GYN Board?

The OB/GYN board is a two-part exam that tests a medical student's knowledge of obstetrics and gynecology.

Part One

The first part is the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology (ABOG) written examination. This portion of the exam is comprehensive and covers all aspects of patient care, including:

  • Diagnosis
  • Treatment plans
  • Patient safety
  • Medical education
  • Ethical considerations

ABOG reports that 30 percent of the exam will be multiple choice and short answer questions on obstetrics, 30 percent on gynecology, 30 percent on women's health and office practices, and ten percent on cross-content. The written portion of the exam is also called the qualifying exam.

Part Two

The second part of the exam is an oral exam, often called the certifying exam. As such, it includes case studies that you will be questioned about by a panel of expert OB/GYNs. Starting in 2022, the certifying exam was moved to a virtual format. It should be noted that you have eight years to take the certifying exam after your medical residency.

Subspecialty

Additionally, OB/GYNs can opt to take a subspecialty exam if they have completed an accredited fellowship in that field, such as gynecologic oncology, maternal-fetal medicine, or reproductive endocrinology.

What Information Does the OB/GYN Board Cover?

Both parts of the OBGYN board cover a wide range of topics related to obstetrics and gynecology, including:

  • Anatomy and physiology
  • Pathology
  • Pharmacology
  • Ethics and legal issues related to patient care
  • Clinical decision-making
  • Ambulatory care management strategies
  • Contraception management
  • Evaluation and management of female pelvic organs disorders, such as endometriosis or fibroids
  • Reproductive endocrinology
  • Infertility management strategies
  • Labor & delivery issues, such as cesarean section techniques
  • Neonatal care and postpartum management

Additionally, the exams cover other topics related to women's health from adolescence through menopause.

What Is the Best Method for OB/GYN Board Preparation?

The best way to prepare for your OB/GYN boards is by studying hard with both self-study materials. Additionally, there are several excellent study guides available online that can help you review key concepts covered in both parts of the exam. In fact, online OB/GYN board preparation is incredibly helpful in providing structured learning materials along with practice questions to help you gain confidence while preparing for this exam.

Online OB/GYN board preparation is particularly helpful now that the exam itself has moved to an online format because you will be better prepared to answer questions in a virtual setting.

Passing the OB/GYN boards is a requirement for any OB/GYN, and online OB/GYN board preparation will give you the advantage. You should have no problems successfully passing.

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