Abigail Rowe

Medical students on the rural pathway experience a three-week placement with the Department of Obstetrics, Gynaecology & Newborn Health in their third year of study in the MD program at the University of Melbourne.

Abigail Rowe spent three weeks at Goulburn Valley Health in Shepparton. Her experience provided opportunities to form meaningful connections with patients and enrich her understanding of childbirth and patient care.

Here, she describes how immersing herself fully in the experience enhanced her learning opportunities and how the rotation has strengthened her aspirations to pursue a career as a rural generalist.

Can you describe a typical day during your rural obstetrics,  gynaecology and newborn health rotation?

During my rotation, my days varied depending on my assigned area.

In the Birth Suite, I started at 8 AM for handover, assisted midwives during labour, and followed the obstetrics team for instrumental deliveries or caesarean sections. Some mornings, I participated in elective caesarean section lists, where I scrubbed in and witnessed the delivery of many new babies into the world. On days when I was in the Antenatal Clinic or Gynaecological Clinics, I began at 9 AM, examined patients with a consultant, and discussed birth plans, risk factors, or managed gynaecological concerns.

In the afternoons, I often scrubbed into the Gynaecological Theatre to observe procedures like D&C and hysterectomies. Additionally, I had the opportunity to work in EPAS (Early Pregnancy Assessment Service), where I assessed early pregnancy issues and complications.

This rotation provided a rich variety of experiences, highlighting that no two childbirths are the same and offering comprehensive insights into both obstetric and gynaecological care.

How supportive were the faculty and staff during your placement?

I found the faculty and staff to be incredibly supportive and welcoming. All the staff, from midwives to consultants, were eager to teach and share their knowledge.

I learned a great deal from the midwives, whose many years of experience enriched my understanding of childbirth and patient care.

The doctors actively created opportunities for me to scrub in and be hands-on in various procedures, which was invaluable for my learning.

I felt that I found supportive mentors in the HMOs and consultants, who provided guidance and inspiration for my future career in medicine.

What were the highlights of your rotation?

One of the highlights of my OGN rotation was experiencing the continuity of care, which allowed me to form meaningful connections with patients. I loved seeing women in the clinic, getting to know their stories, and then being part of their birthing experience where I could offer my knowledge and support.

It was incredibly rewarding to see the same patients again during OGN rounds the next day, witnessing firsthand the joy of families being made and feeling a deep sense of involvement in their care journey.

How did your placement in obstetrics and gynaecology align with your career goals or interests within the medical field?

My placement in obstetrics and gynaecology at Goulburn Valley Health Shepparton was a transformative experience that aligned perfectly with my career goals and deepened my passion for the field. I was inspired by the incredible consultants and found my initial interest in Obstetrics, Gynaecology, & Newborn Health only grew stronger throughout the rotation.

Immersing myself in this specialized and rewarding area of medicine was both exciting and fulfilling. I felt a genuine connection to the work and the patients, which has strengthened my aspiration to pursue a career as a rural generalist, with hopes of eventually specializing in OB/GYN.

The professional relationships I built and the experiences I gained will undoubtedly guide and inspire me as I move forward in my medical career.

What advice would you give to other students preparing for rural placements in obstetrics and gynaecology?

To get the most out of a rural placement in obstetrics and gynaecology, students should be prepared to fully commit to the experience. Investing time in building trusting relationships with both staff and patients is crucial, as this will enhance your learning opportunities.

Be ready to embrace long, unpredictable hours, especially in the labour ward, where you might need to be flexible and available.

A proactive attitude and a willingness to engage in all aspects of the rotation will help you make the most of this rewarding and immersive experience.