Work-life balance can pose a significant challenge for female physicians specializing in genitourinary (GU) oncology due to the demanding nature of the field.
In a recent discussion with CancerNetwork® in Breaking Barriers: Women in Oncology, Dr. Maha H. Hussain and Dr. Sarah E. Fenton delved into their experiences with starting families and how it influenced their professional lives.
Dr. Hussain, holding the Genevieve E. Teuton Professor of Medicine position at Northwestern Medicine, shared her journey of navigating residency while pregnant. She emphasized the importance of both her family and career.
On the other hand, Dr. Fenton, an assistant professor of Medicine at Northwestern Medicine, expressed her struggles in determining the ideal timing to start a family. Eventually, she found a way to harmonize her personal and professional commitments.
Transcript:
Fenton: The challenges I faced regarding family planning are not specific to GU oncology but rather common among women entering the medical field or any profession that demands significant dedication. I had a strong desire for children and grappled with when and how to incorporate that into my career trajectory. A pivotal moment for me was a conversation with one of my residency mentors who highlighted the concept of career seasons. Understanding that there are phases in one’s career, such as when starting a family, where the focus shifts from work to newborn care, brought me clarity. It’s essential to broaden your perspective and acknowledge that your dedication to work may fluctuate over time. Work commitments evolve like seasons, varying from day to day and week to week. By aligning your priorities and aspirations, you can navigate through these transitions successfully. This shift in mindset transformed my approach to family planning, a decision of great significance to me. Today, I am a proud mother of two wonderful children.
Hussain: Balancing personal and professional life is paramount, particularly for women. Despite the immense value of motherhood, it often goes unrecognized in career advancement. Personally, I have found that sacrificing sleep, working diligently, and mastering the art of equilibrium are key. Originating from Baghdad, Iraq, and immigrating with my family, I vividly recall the challenges we faced during the initial stages of our careers. As interns, we earned modest salaries, with my first-year income totaling $17,000 while expecting a child. Juggling a demanding on-call schedule every third night was taxing but manageable. The crux of the matter lies in setting clear priorities and aligning them with your aspirations. It is possible to progress simultaneously in both your personal and professional spheres. Motherhood is an enriching experience that complements a thriving career. Remember, a fulfilling personal life invariably enhances your professional endeavors.