Related Experiment Videos
Maternity policy and practice during surgery residency: how we do it.
Sally E Carty1, Yolonda L Colson, Laura S Garvey
1Department of Surgery, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pa 15261, USA.
Surgery
|October 31, 2002
Summary
Parenthood during surgical residency is common. This study found that resident maternity leave and parental experiences can be managed effectively, ensuring safety, equity, and satisfaction for all involved.
Area of Science:
- Medical Education
- Surgical Training
- Reproductive Health
Background:
- Historically, pregnancy during general surgery residency was discouraged.
- This study addresses the evolving landscape of parenthood within surgical training programs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the experiences of general surgery residents during pregnancy and maternity leave.
- To assess the impact of resident parenthood on training and peer dynamics.
Main Methods:
- An anonymous survey was conducted in 2001 with 25 general surgery residents (PGY3+).
- The survey focused on experiences during colleagues' pregnancies and maternity leaves.
Main Results:
- 8 pregnancies occurred among 13 female residents (22% of 59) between 1995-2001.
- Residents worked until term in most cases, with a median 6-week postpartum leave; nursing was common.
- Most resident mothers felt treated fairly, and male peers reported neutral or positive effects on their work life; fatherhood was reported by 42% of male respondents.
Conclusions:
- Parenthood is a frequent occurrence during surgical residency.
- Effective management strategies can ensure safety, equity, and satisfaction for residents and faculty during maternity and paternity leaves.