On the 0ccasion of Mother’s day The Checkup Magazine asked some Doctor- Mothers to share their experiences on how becoming a Mother impacted their role as Doctors.
Dr.Hemalatha VidyaShankar is a Pediatric Ophthalmologist at NH SRCC Children’s Hospital & Dr. Vidyashankar’s Centre for Vision.
“Becoming a mother taught me the true meaning of unconditional love, which is beyond any other relationship. I am a Pediatric Ophthalmologist and I deal with lot of young children and their parents. As a mother, I relate to their concerns more effectively. This has made me more empathetic and understand that for a parent, their child’s health is of utmost concern. So even if they ask me the same question several times, I have become more patient in dealing with them and making them understand the whole situation. As a parent, I too can be in the same situation and would love to have a patient physician solving my queries, however mundane.”
Dr. Tuhina Mehta is a Periodontist at Gums and Braces Dental Clinic
“Being a doctor goes hand in hand with deep empathy for patients. But after becoming a mother, the sheer understanding, empathy & care in my very nature has increased manifold! This has helped me in my efforts in prioritising between baby & work. The answer is: whoever needs me more at that moment… It’s a beautiful journey & my baby has brought out the very best in me!”
Dr.Shraddha Natekar is a Consultant Pediatric Dentist, Thane
As a paediatric dentist, the only basis l had for understanding children who sit in the chair was by observing them for a few moments or from whatever I had read in my academic curriculum. Being a parent has given me a better understanding of dealing with children. Multi-tasking and time management is another aspect that has improved substantially. Also , during initial phases of parenthood not being able to give enough time to my work has made me realize what my profession or working means to me as a person and also in being a better parent.
Dr.Natasha Pinto is an MD, CCFP in Toronto, Canada
“Doctor Mom” That term gets thrown around a lot. When I think about it, I would say I’m a mom first, and then a doctor. My sons are 8 and 4 years old. I work as a family physician in a rural community. I have a small primary care practice, and I do inpatient hospital coverage and palliative home visits. I have a supportive husband, who is the number one parent when I’m on call. My kids have made me a better physician. I am more patient; I have more empathy and I can be silly with my pediatric patients as needed. My kids have taught me to live in the moment more, and to look at the small things in life that we take for granted. Yes, I am a mom first, and then a doctor but I am a better doctor because I’m a mom.
Dr. Manasi Rege is a Resident Doctor in the Department of Pharmacology L.T.M.M.C. and G.H.
The nurses stand as she strides into the operation theatre. She, a senior anesthetist, has a calm demeanor but a commanding presence. I, a meek medical student, watch her in awe and secretly wish to be like her someday. I return home after college and open the door to see that senior doctor standing in my house. She looks different in her casual outfit at home, less commanding, more loving. “Will you have some tea with me?” she offers. I marvel at how she can play so many roles so effectively in life. And I wonder, if I can truly ever be like her. I gratefully look at the doctor and reply, “Sure Mom.”
