How many questions does AceMRCOG have?

AceMRCOG has 1,750 expertly curated MRCOG Part 1 SBA questions across all 14 subjects including Physiology, Pharmacology, Microbiology, Genetics, Pathology, Anatomy, Statistics, Immunology, Biochemistry, Endocrinology, Biophysics, Neonatology, Clinical Management and Embryology.

Yes. AceMRCOG offers a free plan with 50 questions — no credit card required. Paid plans unlock all 1,750 questions, timed mock tests, detailed explanations and performance analytics.

Does AceMRCOG have mock tests?

Yes. Paid plans include full timed mock tests that simulate the real MRCOG Part 1 exam format. Each mock has 100 questions with a 90-minute timer, matching the actual exam conditions.

What is the MRCOG Part 1 pass rate?

The MRCOG Part 1 first-attempt pass rate is approximately 40-50%. Candidates who practice at least 1,500 questions and complete multiple timed mock tests significantly improve their chances of passing on the first attempt.

How long should I study for MRCOG Part 1?

Most successful candidates study for 3-6 months. If working clinically, 3 months with 1.5-2 hours of daily structured study and daily question practice is achievable. The key is consistent question practice — at least 30 questions per day.

What subjects are tested in MRCOG Part 1?

MRCOG Part 1 tests 14 subjects: Physiology, Pharmacology, Microbiology, Genetics, Pathology, Anatomy, Statistics & Epidemiology, Immunology, Biochemistry, Endocrinology, Biophysics, Neonatology, Clinical Management and Embryology.

When is the MRCOG Part 1 exam held?

The MRCOG Part 1 exam is held twice a year — typically in March and September. Exact dates are published by the RCOG on their official website. Registration usually opens 3-4 months before the exam date.

MRCOG Part 1 Subject Guide

MRCOG Part 1: Microbiology

~165 questionsHigh priority

Microbiology has the highest question count of any MRCOG Part 1 subject, with approximately 165 questions. It covers bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites relevant to obstetrics and gynaecology — with particular emphasis on sexually transmitted infections, infections in pregnancy and antimicrobial agents.

Topics Covered

Sexually Transmitted Infections

›Chlamydia trachomatis — biology, clinical features, diagnosis (NAAT), treatment
›Neisseria gonorrhoeae — gram-negative diplococcus, beta-lactamase resistance
›Treponema pallidum (syphilis) — stages, congenital syphilis, serology (TPHA, VDRL, FTA)
›Herpes simplex virus (HSV-1 and HSV-2) — primary vs recurrent, neonatal herpes risk
›Human papillomavirus (HPV) — types 6, 11, 16, 18; cervical dysplasia; vaccination
›Trichomonas vaginalis — flagellated protozoan, metronidazole treatment
›HIV in pregnancy — PMTCT, timing of transmission, antiretrovirals

Bacterial Infections in Pregnancy

›Group B Streptococcus (GBS) — neonatal sepsis, intrapartum prophylaxis
›Listeria monocytogenes — gram-positive, unpasteurised dairy, meningitis in neonates
›E. coli — UTI, neonatal meningitis (K1 antigen)
›Bacterial vaginosis — Gardnerella, Clue cells, Amsel criteria, preterm birth risk
›Chorioamnionitis — ascending infection, organisms, management

Viral Infections in Pregnancy

›Rubella — MMR vaccine, 12-week booking screen, congenital rubella syndrome
›CMV — most common congenital infection, effects on neonate
›Varicella zoster — chickenpox in pregnancy risks, neonatal varicella, VZIG
›Parvovirus B19 — hydrops fetalis, slapped cheek disease
›Hepatitis B — surface antigen, transmission, neonatal immunisation
›Hepatitis C — vertical transmission rate, no vaccine

Microbiology Principles

›Gram staining — gram-positive vs gram-negative organisms and cell wall differences
›Bacterial structure — endotoxin (LPS) in gram-negatives, peptidoglycan
›Mechanisms of antibiotic resistance — beta-lactamase, MRSA, ESBL
›Bacteraemia, sepsis and SIRS criteria
›Prions, viroids and atypical pathogens (Chlamydia, Mycoplasma, Rickettsia)

Exam Tips for Microbiology

Know Gram stain classification for every major pathogen — this is tested directly and determines treatment.

Congenital infection effects (TORCH — Toxoplasma, Rubella, CMV, HSV) are high-yield: know the specific neonatal consequences.

Syphilis serology is complex: understand VDRL (non-specific, affected by pregnancy), TPHA (specific treponemal test).

Group B Strep is a recurring question: know risk factors for neonatal disease and intrapartum antibiotic prophylaxis criteria.

HPV types must be memorised: 6 & 11 = genital warts; 16 & 18 = cervical cancer (high-risk).

Recommended Book

✓ Medical Microbiology by Murray, Rosenthal & Pfaller (9th Edition) — use selectively, focus on STI and obstetric chapters.

Practice Microbiology questions now

AceMRCOG has 165 Microbiology SBA questions with detailed explanations. Start with 50 questions free — no credit card needed.

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Related Subjects

Pharmacology

~131 questions

Pathology

~100 questions

Immunology

~60 questions

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