Women physicians are often expected to do it all: care for patients, raise families, support everyone around them, and somehow never ask for anything in return.

In this episode of FEM, MD, host Dr. Lauren Umstattd sits down with physician, writer, and creator Dr. Laura Vater for an honest conversation about toxic martyrdom in medicine, physician burnout, motherhood, sleep deprivation, and building a sustainable career as a woman doctor.

Together, they discuss why so many women in medicine struggle with boundaries, how residency training can normalize self-sacrifice, the reality of the "second shift" at home, and practical advice for physicians navigating career, family, and personal well-being.

Topics discussed include:

• Toxic martyrdom in medicine

• Women physicians and burnout

• Motherhood during medical training

• The "second shift" and working moms

• Setting boundaries as an attending physician

• Sleep deprivation and physician wellness

• Negotiating your first physician contract

• Financial independence for doctors

• Raising children while practicing medicine

• Finding joy and fulfillment outside of work

Whether you're a medical student, resident, attending physician, or working mother trying to balance it all, this conversation offers practical wisdom and reassurance that you are not alone.

Host: Dr. Lauren Umstattd

Connect with Lauren: @lauren_umstattd_md

Guest: Dr. Laura Vater

Connect with Laura: @doclauravater

Produced by: The Hippocratic Collective

See more shows and content at hippocratic-collective.com