Definition of an Obstetrician and Gynecologist (OB-GYN)
Obstetricians and gynecologists are physicians who, by virtue of satisfactory completion of an accredited program of graduate medical education, possess special knowledge, skills and professional capability in the medical and surgical care of women related to pregnancy and disorders of the female reproductive system. Obstetricians and gynecologists provide primary and preventive care for women and serve as consultants to other health care professionals.
American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology Certification
To be eligible for certification and continuing certification in obstetrics and gynecology or an approved subspecialty, candidates and diplomates must devote the majority of their practice to the specialty of obstetrics and gynecology. ABOG reviews the applicant’s medical licensure status, which must be in compliance with ABOG’s standards and policies. Postgraduate training requirements must also be met and verified. Two steps are required to become board-certified: passing the written Qualifying Examination and passing the oral Certifying Examination. Applicants who are approved as meeting all requirements may register to take the Qualifying Examination. Once a physician passes the Qualifying Exam, the candidate may then apply to take the Certifying Exam. Upon passage of the Certifying Exam, the physician is considered to be an ABOG-certified Diplomate.
The American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology (ABOG) certifies as Diplomates those who satisfactorily complete the examination process. Participation in the certification and continuing certification processes is voluntary. Standards of certification are distinct from those of state licensure. American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology certification does not indicate qualification for all aspects of practice privileges, nor does it imply lack of qualification for individuals who are not certified by ABOG.
American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology certification does not confer upon any person any degree or legal qualifications, privileges, or license to practice obstetrics and gynecology.
The privileges granted physicians in the practice of obstetrics and gynecology in any hospital or other healthcare facility are the prerogative of that facility, not of ABOG.
The American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology does not and cannot attest to the knowledge, judgment, skills, and qualifications of Diplomates related to practice outside of the scope of the specialty of obstetrics and gynecology.
Page last updated: July 31, 2025
