Obstetrics–Gynecology Educational Achievements in Iran (1979-2017): Trends, Consequences and Future Implications

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 changes 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.