Navigating Motherhood as a Physician: Insights from Dr. Una

Welcome to the beautiful chaos of motherhood, especially for those wearing the dual hats of physician and mom! I was thrilled to have Dr. Nneka Unachukwu, founder of EntreMD,join me on this new episode to share her insights on navigating this unique journey. With four children and a thriving career as a pediatrician and entrepreneur, Dr. Una's experience is a treasure trove for fellow physician moms seeking balance and fulfillment.

The Reality of Motherhood for Physician Moms

Many physician moms enter motherhood with preconceived notions, believing they can tackle it just like any other challenge. Dr. Una initially thought motherhood would be similar to medical school—demanding but manageable with the right algorithm. However, she soon discovered that parenting is unpredictable, requiring flexibility and resilience. This realization resonated deeply with many first-time moms who face the unexpected hurdles of parenthood.

The Power of Community Support

Dr. Una's journey underscores the importance of community in motherhood. After receiving a life-altering diagnosis during her pregnancy, she leaned on her faith and a close friend for support. She wisely chose to protect her peace by limiting what she shared with others. For physician moms, curating your community is vital. Surround yourself with those who uplift you, offering encouragement rather than judgment.

Navigating Social Media's Influence

In today's digital age, social media can be a double-edged sword. It can foster connection or breed comparison and self-doubt. Dr. Una emphasizes the need for a curated social media experience. Unfollow accounts that trigger negativity or make you feel inadequate. Focus on those that inspire and support your journey as a mom and a physician. Remember, what you see online is often a polished version of reality.

Embracing Imperfection and Asking for Help

Dr. Una advocates for embracing imperfection in both motherhood and medicine. She learned that being a "perfect" mom isn't the goal; rather, it's about doing your best and seeking help when needed. Whether it’s family, friends, or professional support, accepting assistance is crucial. As she puts it, “There’s no award for doing this alone.”

Creating Healthy Boundaries

Establishing boundaries is essential for work-life balance, especially for physician moms juggling demanding careers. Dr. Una shares her strategy of designating specific times for family while ensuring that her work responsibilities do not infringe on personal time. This intentionality fosters a nurturing environment where both her children and her career can thrive.

The Transition from One to Many

Every transition in motherhood brings its own set of challenges, and Dr. Una reflects on how her perspective evolved with each child. By the time she had her fourth child, she had learned the value of delegating tasks and allowing others to share in the caregiving experience. Her mantra? "You don’t have to do it all."

Dr. Una’’s journey as a physician and mother is a testament to resilience, community, and the importance of self-compassion. By embracing imperfection, curating supportive communities, and establishing boundaries, physician moms can navigate the complexities of motherhood with grace and confidence. Remember, you’re not alone in this journey—take all the help you can get and celebrate every small victory along the way.

To hear more insights from Dr. Nneka Unachukwu and other Physician moms, subscribe to the Stethoscopes and Strollers podcast. Your journey through motherhood and medicine doesn't have to be a solo one - let's navigate it together.

For more information about Dr. Una, you can visit her website and connect with her on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn. 

Also, subscribe and listen to The EntreMD Podcast

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