Abstract

Background: To study the current trends in Obstetrics–Gynecology (Ob-Gyn) education and workforce in Iran since 1979 and to discuss the consequences and implications. Methods: This descriptive-analytical study was conducted to describe the Ob-Gyn residency and fellowship growth and workforce profile in Iran (1979-2017).The first-hand data gathered from MOHME and Iran’s Medical Council. The Obstetrician-Gynecologist (Ob-Gyns) per 100000 populations’ ratio and the percentage chang-es calculated and the trends analyzed. Results: Between 1979 and 2017, the proportion of trained Ob-Gyns at national universities increased by 86.27, the number of certified Ob-Gyns increased by 333 and, female Ob-Gyns increased by 1142.The ratio of active gynecologists per 100,000 people was 5.0 in 1979 and 8.05 in 2017, represents an increase of 70. Since 1979 the number of active gynecologists has increased by 278 and the number of active female gynecologists has increased by 996. Since 1990 the maternal mortality per 100,000 live births decreased by 79.9 in Iran. However, since 1980 the Cesarean proportion increased by 203 in Iran. Conclusion: Ob-Gyn education has undergone remarkable growth. Ongoing research should focus on Ob-Gyn’s geographic distribution, and potential implications of female Ob-Gyns practice pattern and technologies on women’s health. © 2021 Tabatabai et al. Published by Tehran University of Medical Sciences.