CAQ-OBGYN study guide
CAQ-OBGYN · Work through your exam, one topic at a time.
The Certificate of Added Qualifications (CAQ) is a specialty credential offered by the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants (NCCPA), the only certifying organization for PAs in the United States. NCCPA describes the CAQ as a way for PAs to "show your advanced expertise in your specialty," so the OBGYN CAQ is aimed at Certified PAs who already practice in obstetrics and gynecology and want documented recognition of that focused body of knowledge. NCCPA states that it provides certification programs reflecting standards for clinical knowledge, clinical reasoning, and other medical skills and professional behaviors, and that it is accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA). This page is an independent study aid; it is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by NCCPA. Topics on this exam: Obstetrics, Gynecology, Gynecologic Oncology, and Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility. The CAQ-OBGYN study guide has 4 sections and about 1,228 words.
01Obstetrics
The Obstetrics domain tests prenatal care, antepartum surveillance, labor management, and obstetric emergencies. The exam emphasizes ACOG-supported timing of screening and evidence-based management of common complications. Establish gestational age with first-trimester ultrasound (crown-rump length 7–13 6/7 weeks is most accurate). Naegele’s rule (LMP + 280 days) is used only if ultrasound dating agrees within 7 days in the first trimester.
326 words, about 2 min02Gynecology
The Gynecology domain tests preventive care, contraception, menstrual disorders, menopause, and common infections. It emphasizes age-based screening and evidence-based evaluation of abnormal uterine bleeding. Cervical cancer screening starts at 21. Cytology alone every 3 years is acceptable for ages 21–29.
304 words, about 2 min03Gynecologic Oncology
The Gynecologic Oncology domain tests screening, diagnosis, staging, and treatment of cervical, ovarian, endometrial, and vulvar cancers, plus gestational trophoblastic disease. It emphasizes FIGO staging and timely referral to gynecologic oncology. Cervical cancer screening follows risk-based ASCCP management. HPV vaccination prevents cancer but does not replace screening.
303 words, about 2 min04Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility
The Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility domain tests infertility evaluation, ovulatory disorders, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), menopause, and assisted reproduction. It emphasizes cost-effective workup and first-line treatment. Infertility is failure to conceive after 12 months of regular unprotected intercourse. Evaluate after 6 months if the female partner is older than 35, and earlier if risk factors exist (irregular menses, pelvic surgery, known tubal disease).
295 words, about 1 min