Women's Health NP

[aab7]

I am starting a DNP-FNP program in August and have a strong interest in women's health (thats what influenced me to make a career switch to nursing), but I'm not 100% sure if its really what I want to do. Is a specialized WHNP DNP program required to be able to practice/specialize in women's health, or does having a DNP-FNP degree allow this?

[traumaRUs, MSN, APRN]

Moved to Student NP forum for more responses.

Have you shadowed NPs? It seems like a time commitment to a DNP program means you have thoroughly researched the FNP as what you want to do.

WHNP is a different specialty. FNP can sometimes see women's health issues but that is not their primary focus.

If I was you, I would certainly shadow some NPs and talk with NPs in your area (if that is where you plan to work) and get some idea about who hires WHNPs versus FNPs for the type of job that you want.

Best wishes.

[jkings]

I am in your same shoes, and have applied for a FNP program, but have always worked and had interest in Women's health. I was told by one of my NP friends, that it might be better to do the FNP program and not limit yourself by getting your WHNP. She said you could still work as a NP in Women's health with your FNP, but would be open for more job opportunities. I have noticed FNP's working in our Women's Clinics.