Work and life satisfaction of female urologists in Korea

To evaluate career satisfaction, mentorship experience, work-life balance, and perceptions of gender discrimination among female urology residents and specialists in Korea.

A nationwide cross-sectional survey was conducted among female urologists, including residents and board-certified specialists. The questionnaire assessed demographic characteristics, mentorship experience, career satisfaction, personal life satisfaction, work-related stress, and experiences of gender discrimination.

A total of 41 respondents participated, including 11 residents and 30 specialists. Most specialists (63.3%) practiced in tertiary or secondary hospitals, and 21 (70.0%) specialized in female urology or voiding dysfunction. Only 9.1% of residents and 33.3% of specialists reported substantial mentorship during training, with the most common barrier being the absence of experts in the desired field. While 60.0% of specialists and 54.5% of residents stated they would choose urology again, 56.7% and 45.5%, respectively, would not recommend the specialty to their children. Residents reported higher work-related stress (median, 7 vs. 5, p>0.05), whereas personal life satisfaction was similar between groups (median, 6 vs. 7, p>0.05). All residents reported workload adjustments, whereas 95.0% of specialists reported unchanged duties. Approximately one-third experienced gender discrimination, mainly during residency, most often from colleagues or patients, and 81.6% perceived male preference in employment.

Female urologists in Korea demonstrate strong professional dedication but there remain challenges related to mentorship scarcity, gender bias, and work-life imbalance. Efforts to strengthen mentorship and promote equitable workplace policies are essential to enhance satisfaction and retention among women in urology.