My Work My Baby

Janelle discusses her experience deciding to have a child during internal medicine residency, the difficulties of being pregnant in residency, the support she received postpartum, and the balance between her career in geriatric medicine and parenting. We discuss the meaning of having a child and being a doctor, drawing from her work with older adults. She also explores cultural differences in family and parenting and the differences between her and her partner's experiences. Our final discussion centers on the special way in which deciding to have a family forces us to reflect and understand ourselves and choose the best life that reflects our own priorities, regardless of outside influences and expectations.   Takeaways Having a child during residency is a challenging decision that requires balancing family planning with career goals. Being pregnant in residency can be physically and emotionally demanding, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. Postpartum support and leave time vary depending on the program and state regulations, highlighting the need for more transparency and standardized policies. Balancing a medical career with parenting requires finding a balance between work and family, and recognizing the importance of self-care. The experience of having a child can provide a unique perspective on caring for patients and the transient nature of life. Cultural differences can influence family dynamics and parenting approaches, highlighting the need for open communication and understanding. Each person's experience of pregnancy and parenting is unique, and it is important to navigate differences and find compromise as a couple.