The evolving role of reproductive endocrinologists in residency training in obstetrics and gynecology: addressing the balance between clinical focus and educational requirements
Inklings
VOLUME 114, ISSUE 6, P1149-1150
Author:
William D. Schlaff, M.D.
Abstract:
The perceived value and the priority of reproductive endocrinology (RE) rotations within residencies in obstetrics and gynecology in the United States have evolved dramatically over the past 20 years or so, just as the subspecialty itself has. Those of us who trained before the new millennium typically participated in a rotation or perhaps two over the course of our 4 years of residency which afforded us the opportunity to learn the basics of reproductive endocrinology and hormone regulation, infertility management, and a variety of closely related disciplines. These usually included diagnosis and management of amenorrhea and menstrual disturbances, menopause, pediatric and adolescent gynecology, and often complex contraceptive care. We who are a bit older usually had substantial experience in the surgical management of infertility, endometriosis, uterine fibroids, and congenital anomalies on our RE rotation. Indeed, it was often said that much of a gynecologist’s practice over one’s entire career would rest on the principles and knowledge gained on the RE rotation during residency.
