Gender difference in health profession education among undergraduate medical students: Importance of culture and simulation in women’s health

Pakistan has one of South Asia's highest maternal mortality ratios, a problem exacerbated by cultural sensitivities that influence health professions education (HPE) in obstetrics and gynecology (O&G) clerkships. These factors may ultimately affect women's health outcomes. This study aimed to evaluate gender-based differences in health professions education during O&G clerkships in Pakistan. This retrospective cross-sectional study analyzed examination records of 1572 medical students (795 males, 777 females) from Liaquat University of Medical and Health Sciences, Pakistan. The written, practical/clinical skills, and overall O&G clerkship scores were compared using independent-samples t tests. Male students achieved significantly higher scores in written O&G examinations (70.46 ± 6.32 vs 68.69 ± 7.28; P < .001), while female students performed better in practical/clinical skills assessments (69.05 ± 10.39 vs 65.98 ± 10.47; P < .001). No significant differences were observed in total O&G scores (68.23 ± 6.79 vs 68.40 ± 7.47; P = .64). Male students performed better in written O&G examinations, while female students excelled in practical assessments; however, overall scores were comparable. This study highlights differences in educational outcomes, which may be influenced by cultural perceptions of gender within the medical specialty.