Oncology is a field that is a constant reminder of life’s fragility. Being an oncologist is not just a profession but also an emotional commitment. Unlike other medical specialties, it requires more patience and empathy. An oncologist has to deliver life-altering news and also has to emotionally support the patients and their families through the diagnosis, relapse/recurrence, prognosis, treatment, and survivorship or bereavement. Oncology extends far beyond chemo, surgery, or radiation therapy, treating the patient as a whole, not just the disease alone. Also, it is a rapidly evolving field. A young oncologist needs to read emerging research articles and attend conferences to stay knowledgeable and clinically up to date. Especially for a young oncologist, balancing this demanding work with home becomes difficult.
Family Planning and Training Challenges
For young female oncologists, particularly those in training, one of the earliest dilemmas is when to start a family. Concerns about potential complications of delayed childbearing, along with societal pressures, add to this burden. Conception during training makes the already demanding work even more challenging, while conception after becoming a consultant means maternity leave will be a career interruption. With pregnancy comes more challenges. The carrying oncologist will require more frequent breaks and adjustments at work. During this time, she continues to care for her patients, managing their physical and emotional distress while trying to remain positive through her own pregnancy.
Return to Work and Career Impact
After completing 6 months of maternity leave, she either resumes her duties, returns to training, or seeks new employment. For those still in training, balancing work while caring for a newborn becomes more challenging. For those seeking new jobs, opportunities are often limited by career breaks, caregiving responsibilities, and the inability to work long or inflexible hours. Irregular work schedules can also make it difficult to continue breastfeeding for at least a year.
Emergency calls, night shifts, and extended working hours take her away from home, causing her to miss many of her child’s milestones. If the child falls ill, it is often difficult to take leave. Also, taking leave often requires arranging for someone to cover that day’s duties. The emotional burden of work cannot be carried home, as her child looks to her for joy and comfort. As the child grows into a toddler, they begin to recognise their parent’s absence, often leading to a strong emotional attachment to grandparents or other caregivers. Additionally, caregiving responsibilities can make it difficult to attend conferences, especially those held far away or lasting more than a day.
Support Systems and Shared Challenges
There are many such instances that go unscripted. Many apply not only to the young female oncologists but also to their male counterparts. A supportive partner and family, including both parents and in-laws, is of the greatest help during these times. Their help is of utmost importance in managing work and home for the young oncologist. In their absence, hiring professional child care services is an option.
Burnout and the Need for Structural Support
In this highly demanding journey, the personal well-being of the young oncologist is often neglected. Managing emotional stress at work while attempting to set it aside and stay positive at home further intensifies the emotional burnout. Flexible training and work schedules, accessible child care, generous leave policies, and strong family support can help navigate all these challenges.