# Voices of change: experiences of early women urology residents — a single institution qualitative research study

## TL;DR

This study explores the experiences of early women urology residents at a single institution, highlighting challenges and optimism for the future of women in the field.

## Contribution

The study provides qualitative insights from early women urology residents, capturing their personal experiences and perspectives on gender-specific challenges and future optimism.

## Key findings

- Participants were influenced by childhood role models and discovered urology during medical school.
- Gender-specific challenges included patient resistance and balancing personal and professional commitments.
- Participants expressed optimism about the future of women in urology despite these challenges.

## Abstract

To understand the experiences of early women urology residents at a single institution, as told in their own words.

A convenience sample of women residents who trained at the Brady Urological Institute between 1980 and 2022 was chosen. During the investigated period, 15 women trained at the Brady; all 15 were invited to participate. Participants were provided written consent and assured of anonymity. In semi-structured interviews guided by a set of IRB-approved questions, participants discussed personal backgrounds, medical school experiences, and residency experiences. Participants provided advice to future women in urology. Interviews were recorded with Audacity 3.0.5 or Zoom, and audio files were transcribed using NVivo 14.23.0.

A total of 10 interviews were conducted between July 2023 and February 2024. Childhood role models influenced many participants’ initial interest in medicine, although most discovered urology during medical school. Participants valued the quality of training, mentorship opportunities, proximity to family, and program ethos when selecting a residency program. During residency, participants faced gender-specific challenges due to patient resistance and difficulties balancing professional and personal commitments. Despite these challenges, participants expressed optimism about the future of women in urology.

This study provides insights into the professional development of women urology residents. The participants were part of an early cohort of women in urology and expressed excitement for the future of the field. While the study reflects the experiences of women at just one institution, it provides a foundation for more comprehensive research on women’s experiences in urology and in medicine more broadly.

Not applicable.

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12909-025-06789-5.