This article discusses, in a comparative way, the objective reality and representations of men and women concerning their work in medicine and the interfaces with the domestic sphere. Discrimination, incentives, and obstacles in careers are analyzed from the perspective of gender and generations. Data was collected at the Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre (HCPA), integrating quantitative and qualitative techniques. The results indicate that in order to explain career incentive factors, women seem to give more importance to private life elements while men put more emphasis on external factors. Both stress the importance of having a 'model' professional as ideal for professional practice and a positive academic environment with institutional support and good relationships with coworkers. Among the obstacles are overwork, lack of time, and financial difficulties, observing that there are differences of gender in regards to family life and personal problems. Women's 'comparative advantages' were highlighted in carrying out their activities. This study may contribute to the implementation of positive actions to improve the conditions of work life and gender equity, in both the public and private spheres.
gender; career; discrimination
