Radiology Forums

ataglance05 · Joined: 14 Nov 2006 Posts: 2

I just have a simple, yet silly question. Does the field of Diagnostic Medical Sonography/Ultrasound usually entail a predominatley female-dominated career?? Please explain with any statistics/ratios/personal classroom experience, if possible.

Thank you

hjhogle · Moderator Joined: 23 May 2006 Posts: 556 Location: CT

I have 27 years as an ARRT certified/registered Radiographer. I spent a year or so doing sonography in the mid 1980's. I've also taught in a community college based program and a hospital based program.

In that many years, I've seen the demographic of graduates change - not wildly, but steadily increasing so that almost (I know, it's not scientific) as many of us are men as women. The best sonographer I know is male, and he's been at it for as many years as I've been around.

Is this for research purposes, or are you considering a career in diagnostic medical sonography?

hjh

ataglance05 · Joined: 14 Nov 2006 Posts: 2

I am indeed considering a career in sonography. Thank you for your input!!!!

hjhogle · Moderator Joined: 23 May 2006 Posts: 556 Location: CT

Let's face it, I'm partial to radiography Smile

Sonography is incredibly demanding. It's very operator-dependant, and so requires dedication, attention to detail and the development of a good "eye".

If that sounds like you and you're not afraid of hard work, I think you'd find it rewarding.

Good luck to you
hjh

mamabamama@yahoo.com · Joined: 30 Nov 2006 Posts: 8

Actually, you ask a very good question. By no means is sonography for only one gender. If you have gotten some exposure to it and your still intrigued by it, then what are you waiting for? GO FOR IT!!! Sonography is my background and training and I thoroughly love it! I have no regrets what so ever. During my ultrasound school years ....there were maybe two male at the most in a class with eight to ten females in it. This was virtually across the board where I went to school. Now, I am astonished at how quickly more males have permeated the area of ultrasound. I think it's marvelous. I attended a seminar this year and was amazed at how many males dominated the room vs. females.
Again, go for it and good luck to you if this is what you want. I don't think you would be unhappy. Sorry, but I didn't intend to go on this long (Certainly I am a little biased when it relates to ultrasound Surprised