Obstetrician and Gynaecologist Career in South Africa
Explore the official OFO occupation, common tasks, specialisations and approved South African qualification pathways.
Occupation overview
Provides diagnostic, treatment and preventative medical and surgical services related to the care of women, foetuses and children during pregnancy and childbirth, and to disorders of the female genital, urinary, rectal and reproductive organs.
What does a Obstetrician and Gynaecologist do?
An obstetrician and gynaecologist provides specialist medical and surgical care for women before, during and after pregnancy and childbirth. The work includes assessing pregnancy-related conditions, caring for foetuses and newborns, diagnosing and treating disorders of the female reproductive, urinary and rectal organs, and providing preventative care. Possible areas of focus include childbirth, gynaecological cancer, infant care and urogynaecology.
Specialisations
How to become a Obstetrician and Gynaecologist in South Africa
- Strengthen your foundation in Life Sciences, Physical Sciences, Mathematics and English; these subjects can help with preparation but are not stated here as compulsory requirements.
- Research the current South African medical education, specialist-training and assessment pathway with relevant universities, accredited providers and official bodies.
- Work towards specialist training in obstetrics and gynaecology, including the Fellowship: College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists, listed at NQF Level 10 with 360 credits.
- Confirm current admission, provider, assessment, recognition and registration requirements before enrolling or applying.
- Gain experience in the clinical diagnosis, treatment and preventative care of pregnancy, childbirth and disorders affecting the female reproductive system.
Edupstairs Preparation Guidance
This career combines complex medical decision-making with medical and surgical treatment. Prepare by developing a strong scientific foundation, careful attention to detail, ethical judgement, communication skills and the ability to support patients through sensitive and sometimes high-risk situations. Verify the current qualification and professional requirements with SAQA, relevant quality councils, accredited providers and official bodies.
Useful school subjects
- Life Sciences
- Physical Sciences
- Mathematics
- English
Skills that may help
- Diagnostic reasoning
- Surgical precision
- Clinical decision-making
- Communication and empathy
- Attention to detail
- Problem-solving
- Emotional resilience
- Teamwork