In plain language
In interviews with 18 US women interventional cardiologists and fellows, participants reported high career satisfaction alongside opaque pay negotiation, inconsistent maternity and breastfeeding support, gender bias, and ongoing concern about radiation safety given inconsistent institutional pregnancy policies.
At a glance
- Type of study
- Original research, Qualitative study
- Who was studied
- Interventional cardiologists, Trainees
- Size
- n = 18 women interventional cardiology attendings and fellows
- Where
- United States
- Summary based on
- the abstract
What it found
Women interventional cardiologists described complex pregnancy timing decisions, inconsistent maternity leave and breastfeeding challenges; radiation safety concerns persisted amid inconsistent institutional policies.
Recruitment and promotion experiences varied, and salary negotiation was often opaque and appeared inequitable.
Gender bias was present but often manageable; some reported exclusion from informal networks and limited leadership opportunities.
Mentorship was pivotal for training, negotiation and resilience.
Despite barriers, most participants reported strong professional satisfaction and commitment to the field.
Limits to keep in mind
Small qualitative interview study of 18 self-selected US women; findings are self-reported themes and not generalizable or quantified.
Related research summaries
- Occupational exposure to ionizing radiation in pregnant staff: Consensus document (Spanish societies) (2023, Guideline or consensus statement)
- Radiation protection for healthcare professionals working in catheterisation laboratories during pregnancy: a statement of the EAPCI in collaboration with EHRA, EACVI, the ESC Regulatory Affairs Committee and Women as One (2023, Guideline or consensus statement)
- SCAI Multi-Society Position Statement on Occupational Health Hazards (2020, Guideline or consensus statement)
- SCAI Consensus Document on Occupational Radiation Exposure to the Pregnant Cardiologist and Technical Personnel (2011, Guideline or consensus statement)
- Radiation Exposure and Protection for (Assumed) Pregnant Interventional Cardiologists and Electrophysiologists (2024, Dosimetry measurement study)
How this summary was made
ORSIF prepared this summary with AI assistance from the abstract of the paper. A program then checked that the passage supporting each finding appears word for word in that source. A person has not yet reviewed each summary, so read the original before relying on a number. ORSIF summarizes research and does not endorse any product or company. Report a problem with this summary.
Prepared November 3, 2026.