According to a study conducted on members of the Canadian Ophthalmological Society, the differences between men and women who practice the profession are diminishing, but work/home balance is still more difficult for women.

Between 2000 and 2013, the percentage of female ophthalmologists in Canada grew from 16% to 22%. In Quebec, the percentage rose to 36%. After surveying 385 ophthalmologists, researchers at Laval University, in Quebec City, found that men and women work an equal number of clinical hours. This equality was also found with respect to type of surgery performed, hospital affiliation, university appointment/rank and number of peer-review publications.

However, women operate less often. Only 49% of women operate two days or more per month, compared to 64% of men. This difference is especially present outside of Quebec, and is attributable to the fact that surgical time is granted based on seniority, which gives men an advantage.

The situation deteriorates for women when it comes to the impact of family life on professional life. Over half of women said that childbearing slowed career progress, compared with barely 15% of men. This is not surprising, as four out of ten female ophthalmologists are primary caregivers for over 20 hours per week, compared to 12% of men. Only 30% of men have a spouse who works full-time, compared to 72% of women.

Despite the differences, over 80% of ophthalmologists, both male and female, claim they are satisfied with their choice of profession.

Source:

http://www.lefil.ulaval.ca/articles/autre-oeil-36221.html

http://www.canadianjournalofophthalmology.ca/article/S0008-4182(14)00062-3/abstract