Dr Sunita Tandulwadkar, HOD (OBGYN) & Chief – IVF & Endoscopy Center, Ruby Hall Clinic, Pune, Advisor & Consultant, Dr DY Patil IVF & Endoscopy Center, Pune, Founder & Medical Director, Solo Clinic IVF & Solo Stem Cells, strives to continuously improve medical standards and inspire the next gen of doctors.
By Andrea CostaBir

Courage and perseverance have brought you to where you are today. In retrospect, what ignited the spark that set you off on this journey? And what is it that keeps you going?
My journey into the field of medicine, and more specifically into reproductive medicine and endoscopic surgery, started with a realisation of the profound impact I could have. The spark was truly ignited in 1992 when I began performing keyhole surgeries. Being one of the pioneers of this minimally invasive surgery in India set me on a path that has been incredibly rewarding and challenging. The ability to operate on a patient in the morning and then send them home by evening, free from what previously would have been a debilitating condition, was revolutionary.
What keeps me going, however, is not just the technological advances but the human impact. About 10 years after my initial foray into endoscopy, I expanded my practice into in vitro fertilisation (IVF). Being in the space of assisted reproduction has allowed me to help families in ways I had never imagined. It’s this ability to touch lives directly and create families that provides the deepest fulfillment and continuously fuels my passion for my work. Every baby born, every family created, renews my energy and reaffirms my commitment to this field.

Please share a lesson you’ve learnt from a mistake/ failure in your career. Has that helped you move forward; if yes, how?
In my career, I’ve been fortunate not to experience any significant failures or mistakes, but this doesn’t mean the journey has been without its challenges. Particularly in the field of in vitro fertilisation (IVF), where outcomes can never be guaranteed, the inherent uncertainty of the process has been a profound teacher. IVF is not only financially and emotionally taxing for patients, but also physically demanding. This understanding has pushed me to always give more than 100% to every case.
Moreover, even in laparoscopic surgery, there were instances in the early ‘90s when I had to convert a procedure to open surgery. Each of these instances was humbling and kept me grounded. They reinforced the importance of approaching each surgery with meticulousness and care as if it were my first. Despite having performed over 25,000 laparoscopic surgeries to date, I treat every new surgery with the same level of diligence and caution, as if I am stepping into the operating room for the first time. This mindset ensures that I never take any procedure for granted, no matter how routine it might seem.

Could you define your key leadership characteristic?
Innovation is the core quality that defines my role as a leader and influencer in the medical field. My career has been marked by pioneering advancements, from being one of the early adopters of laparoscopic surgery in India when the norm was open surgery, to embracing IVF technologies at the opportune time. In 2015, I ventured into the niche field of stem cells, an area still emerging and not widely understood within the medical community. My efforts culminated in delivering India’s first stem cell baby in 2018, a landmark achievement in assisted reproductive technology. These milestones are not just innovations but are steps that continuously push the boundaries of medical science, demonstrating possibilities that redefine patient care.
In addition to my medical innovations, my leadership is deeply influenced by my spirituality, which I integrate into my practice. I consider my role in medicine as a divine calling, where I act as a mediator between science and spirituality, ensuring meticulous care in treatments. This perspective enriches my approach, making each medical decision and procedure a mission rather than just a task.
Furthermore, my role as an educator in various medical fellowship programmes and my leadership positions in national and international gynecological organisations allow me to shape the future of this field. Whether through direct mentorship or as a president influencing thousands of professionals, I strive to elevate the standards of medical practice and improve maternal health. My work extends beyond professional duties; it’s about inspiring and nurturing the next generation of medical professionals.

Being an inspiration to young doctors, what advice would you give those who want to follow a similar path?
To all aspiring young gynecologists and those embarking on the challenging yet immensely rewarding path of obstetrics and gynecology, understand that this profession demands not just skill but also unwavering passion, dedication and honesty. There is truly no shortcut to success; there is no elevator to greatness in this field. You must be willing to take each step, one at a time. Keeping yourself updated with the latest research and developments in our field is essential.
Lastly, always remember how fortunate we are to be part of the medical profession. It is a privilege to be in a role where we can directly save lives and make a significant difference in the well-being of others. Each day in this profession is a blessing, and it’s important to end it with gratitude. Thank God at the end of every day for the opportunity to serve and make a difference.