Survey of Female Gynecologic Oncologists and Fellows: Balancing Professional and Personal Life

Abstract

Objective. The aim of this study was to determine how female gynecologic oncologists have dealt with the challenge of combining childbearing and a career in gynecologic oncology and to identify other issues which need to be addressed to improve job satisfaction.Methods. This survey of female members of the Society of Gynecologic Oncologists and fellows addressed demographics, timing of childbearing, type and cost of childcare, satisfaction with childcare choices, and mentorship. Those without children were queried about plans and reservations. Open-ended questions investigated how female gynecologic oncologists felt job satisfaction could be improved.Results. A total of 65/110 (59%) attendings and 18/36 (50%) fellows responded. Three-fourths of respondents felt that the ideal time to have children was postfellowship. Timing of childbearing caused moderate to severe stress in the personal relationships of 23% of respondents. Median maternity leave was 6 weeks (1–120 days). Seventy-eight percent of female gynecologic oncologists with children employed a nanny. Over half of the respondents estimated weekly childcare cost at over $400. A successful balance between family and full-time practice was the most commonly cited quality of an ideal mentor. Sixty-six percent of the respondents replied to open-ended questions with narrative answers, revealing three major areas for improvement: childcare issues, increased flexibility in hours and duties (clinical, surgical, and research), and the need for more female mentoring.Conclusions. This survey highlighted the concerns of female gynecologic oncologists about achieving a successful balance between family and professional duties. It also revealed the ways in which women have responded and identified other issues that may be targeted to improve job satisfaction.