A Medical Career, at a Cost: Infertility

Question 1

Factors Affecting Reproductive Cycles

Answer 1

Stress, lack of sleep, working frequent night shifts, poor diet, lack of exercise
- These are all inherent to the demands of medical training/the medical profession

Question 2

2016 Journal of Women’s Health Survey

Answer 2

Found nearly 1 in 4 of the surveyed female physicians who had tried to have a baby had been diagnosed with infertility
- This is almost double the rate of the general public

Question 3

Misconceptions

Answer 3

• Female physicians plan to finish their residency knowing that at that time (in their mid to late 30s) they could try to have children. However, the delay makes them more susceptible to health problems and infertility issues
• Some female physicians called for more fertility education and awareness among aspiring doctors

Question 4

Infertility Task Force

Answer 4

Created by Dr. Marshall that raises awareness of the issue by holding sessions on egg freezing, benefits and insurance coverage for fertility treatment, infertility and mental health.

Question 5

Effects During Pregnancy

Answer 5

Female physicians that do get pregnant face issues such as early labor, miscarriages

Question 6

Mothers in Medicine

Answer 6

Non-profit organization founded by Dr. Carranza-Chahal that aims to increase visibility and community outreach for female physicians who are pregnant/are mothers.