Dr Peta Wright is a gynaecologist, paediatric and adolescent gynaecologist, fertility specialist, and the founder of Vera Women’s Wellness. She is a voice for women who want to take back their bodies and their healthcare. We caught up with Dr Wright to get some advice for women in the profession who want to take better care of their bodies.
Early Days:
Dr Peta Wright’s journey into the field of women’s healthcare started when she was 5-years old and knew she wanted to be a doctor.
“I spent countless hours running clinics for my dolls and teddy bears who were stitched and bandaged up, given spoonfuls of imaginary medicine, and set on the mend.”
Growing up in a small country town, there was a female GP who came to fill in for the regular local doctor occasionally, aside from this female role models were few and far between.
“Luckily, a few things were in my favour to get me to medical school. I was a nerd (surprise, surprise) who loved science and was always looking to understand the nuance of things, and I was blessed to have a group of other beautiful nerdy girlfriends who pushed one another to strive for the best. “
Experiencing burnout:
Dr Wright has experienced burnout a few times in her career. “In my early years, I just pushed through and kept going until I fell in a heap - as a junior doctor when I was in training, you really didn’t have a choice but to suck it up.”
As she matured, she began to recognise the signs and to be conscious about pulling herself back and changing course.
“In private practice, I see so many women who are burnt out as patients, and I think it’s important to walk my talk when it comes to self-care.”
Now, Wright is very intentional about her workload and family, and she takes time to include self-care in her life.
“I know I can’t help women myself if I am pouring from an empty cup - and that’s what I would tell other women working in health.”
Dr Wright believes in leading by example which is why the wellbeing of the doctor is at the heart of Vera.
“At Vera, we do yoga at lunchtime twice a week and try to incorporate relaxation, nature, and movement into our daily practice at work. It’s fantastic to be lucky enough to create the change I want to see in running my own practice and help create a better environment for other women I work with.”
Advice for female doctors wanting to take better care of their health:
- Be intentional with your workload: Value your time and make sure you do not sacrifice your health by overcommitting.
- Save time for family: When you are with your family, be present and make sure it is quality time.
- Put an emphasis on “me time”: Setting aside “me time” allows you to take a deep breath, reset, and reconnect your mind and body.
- Incorporate regular movement: Regular movement increases the production of endorphins and improves your quality of sleep.
- Meditate: Meditation provides a sense of peace, calm, and balance that benefits your overall health. This is why I incorporate it into the daily practice at Vera.
- Connect with nature: Getting out in nature can increase energy levels and help people feel more in touch with the world around them.
- Form meaningful connections: Meaningful relationships can contribute to happiness and fulfilment, and their support can provide motivation to carry on through tough times.
- Learn the value of ‘no’: I have also learned the value of saying no. I’m an introvert and I need time at the end of a busy week to recharge. I acknowledge that I am at a place in my career where I do have some control. It’s much harder when you are a junior doctor but I’m hoping things have changed!
Vera Women’s Wellness
“Vera Women’s wellness was born out of a strong desire to treat women as a whole and help them to connect back to themselves, nature, and community,” explained Wright.
She recognises that most women’s issues are complex and often require a holistic approach and input from other modalities such as psychology, physiotherapy, nutrition, Chinese medicine, and naturopathy.
“A one-size-fits-all approach does not fit all women, and Vera is about having curated an exceptional circle of women’s health professionals in the one place that, due to its location outside the hustle and bustle of the city, allows women to plug back into the healing power of nature and themselves.”
Vera has three integrative gynaecologists, two physiotherapists, two dieticians, an acupuncturist, a naturopath, and soon to have a psychologist and massage therapist.
“Vera is nestled in the foothills of Mount Samson 40 minutes outside of Brisbane; this forces women to slow down just by making the trip out. The practice aims to provide a safe, nurturing, and empowering place for women and people with hormonal and menstrual issues. “
Instagram: @petavirginia
Web: https://www.verawomenswellness.com.au/
This article was originally published in 2020
