Reproductive endocrinology and infertility (REI) is a subspecialty of Obstetrics and Gynecology that focuses specifically on the functions of hormones related to fertility.

If you have an interest in the reproductive side of women’s health–especially where it comes to helping solve issues related to infertility–then pursuing a career in reproductive endocrinology might be a better career route than the broader field of OBGYN.

Learn more about reproductive endocrinology in this month’s Specialty Spotlight.

 

Starting a Career in Reproductive Endocrinology: Residency

Because REI is closely related to OBGYN, beginning a career in the subspecialty begins with a four-year OBGYN residency. After completing an OBGYN residency, those interested in pursuing a career in REI will need to complete a three-year REI fellowship.

Although OBGYN is not a particularly competitive specialty for MD applicants (Match data suggests the specialty is less friendly toward IMGs), fellowships in reproductive endocrinology are quite competitive. In the U.S., there are only 49 accredited REI fellowship programs. These programs typically admit just one fellow per year. If you know you want to pursue a career in reproductive endocrinology, you can improve your odds of landing a fellowship by completing your residency at a program that also has an REI fellowship.

 

Practicing as a Reproductive Endocrinologist

After residency and a fellowship, you are now able to practice as a reproductive endocrinologist! Despite residency and fellowship being primarily through hospital systems, it might be surprising that most reproductive endocrinologists practice in outpatient settings.

The average salary for reproductive endocrinologists falls around $391,000, although there is a significant gap in pay between men and women physicians. Despite this, more women are entering the field, which is helping to challenge those pay gaps.

 

Interested in a career in reproductive endocrinology? Earn clinical experience with one of AMOpportunities virtual and in-person clinical experiences. Search programs here or reach out to an AMO Advisor by email at advisors@amopportunities.org or on WhatsApp at +1-312-241-0640