Creative Careers In Medicine Podcast

In this episode of the CCIM podcast, host Dr Dana Phang is joined by Dr Melanie Mapleson, a general practitioner who has transitioned to specialising in perinatal care and breastfeeding medicine. Dr Mapleson discusses her journey from general practice to her current focus, driven largely by her personal experiences with breastfeeding challenges. She provides insight into the slow medicine approach she adopts to address newborn concerns, pain, and parenting challenges. Dr Mapleson advocates for greater recognition and training in breastfeeding and lactation medicine.Dr Mapleson's career path started in more generalised medical practice but shifted due to burnout exacerbated during the COVID-19 pandemic, handling high patient loads that involved mental health, women’s health, chronic diseases, and complicated cases. Her transition into her current specialty reflects a broader narrative of medical professionals moving into niche areas to address specific community needs. She emphasises the importance of extended