Women in Neurosurgery

Abstract

  This report describes how I worked as a pediatric neurosurgeon during pregnancy and the child-bearing period. In addition, the report presents an overview of systems of maternity/childcare leave and problems of children on the waiting lists for childcare services. The number of female physicians is increasing in Japan, and they have been choosing a greater variety of clinical departments. In the neurosurgical society, the number of female neurosurgeons is also increasing, and they are working in various subspecialties. To respect different working styles and values, objective systems are recommended for evaluating personal abilities, salaries, and resources.

  It is important to retain neurosurgeons to maintain qualified neurosurgical activities for the populace.