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When female physicians are expecting a child, blanket bans on certain activities—such as surgeries and examinations involving X-rays—are often imposed. This suspension frequently results in a career setback. "For many of our female colleagues, this is a major issue. They enjoy their work, simply want to continue their current duties, or do not want to have to interrupt their specialty training," explains Dr. David Duncker, director of the Hannover Heart Rhythm Center (HHC).

The HHC is one of the few cardiology training centers in Germany that have established structures allowing female physicians to continue practicing as usual during pregnancy. The HHC is part of the Department of Cardiology and Angiology at the Hannover Medical School (MHH).

The Hannover Heart Rhythm Center offers the full range of treatments for patients with cardiac arrhythmias. This includes invasive procedures such as catheter ablations and the implantation of pacemakers and defibrillators. These are performed under X-ray guidance in the cardiac catheterization laboratory. "According to current recommendations from professional societies, pregnant physicians are permitted to continue performing invasive procedures under certain conditions and on a voluntary basis," explains Duncker.

To ensure safe working conditions, the HHC has established additional protective measures for pregnant physicians performing invasive procedures. These include the use of two-piece X-ray aprons, sterile radiation shielding drapes and an electronic real-time dosimeter to monitor radiation exposure during the procedure.

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