"My Better Half": Partner Experiences of Women Cardiothoracic Surgeons

The demands of cardiothoracic surgery often affect personal relationships, with those of partners vulnerable to numerous challenges. We aimed to characterize the personal relationship experiences of women cardiothoracic surgeons.

We designed a survey gathering information on relationship dynamics from partners of women cardiothoracic surgeons. The survey was loaded into an internet-based platform, and links were disseminated to members of the Women in Thoracic Surgery, who subsequently distributed the survey to their partners and spouses. Questions explored avenues through which the women's surgical careers had affected their partners and relationships.

The survey was completed by 32 individuals, and relationship roles included 28 (87.5%) spouses and 4 (12.5%) nonmarital partners. Among respondents, 64.3% (17 of 27) reported that the cardiothoracic surgeon's dedication to her job inspired the partner to be more understanding, whereas 55.6% (15 of 27) noted challenges in maintaining healthy work-life balance. Irregular and demanding work hours resulted in missed important events (44.4%; 12 of 27), reduced quality time together (55.6%; 15 of 27), and increased relationship tension (48.1%; 13 of 27). Notably, 66.7% (18 of 27) reported that their partners' surgical careers did not affect their decision to have children. When comparing experiences across relationship durations, there were no meaningful differences in the distribution of the responses.

Our findings highlight challenges encountered by partners of women cardiothoracic surgeons across all stages of their careers and relationships. Elucidating these dynamics enables us to better support those interested in the field and within our community.