Navigating parenthood in the surgical profession: mixed-methods study

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Surgical Training
• Work-Life Balance

Background:

• Barriers to parenthood in surgery disproportionately affect women.
• Addressing these challenges is vital for attracting and retaining talent in surgery.
• The study focuses on the Australian and New Zealand context.

Purpose of the Study:

• Investigate parenthood patterns among surgeons.
• Explore surgeons' attitudes and experiences regarding parenthood.
• Identify barriers and solutions for surgeon-parents.

Main Methods:

• Survey distributed to surgeons and trainees.
• Focus groups conducted with participants.
• Thematic analysis of qualitative data and quantitative results description.

Main Results:

• High rates of parenthood among respondents, with women more likely to time childbirth around careers.
• Surgeon-parents experienced guilt; parenthood was often unaddressed in professional discussions.
• Lack of flexible training was the primary barrier, with calls for mandated part-time positions.

Conclusions:

• Rigid workplace structures, rooted in historical norms, create barriers for surgeon-parents.
• Flexibility, innovation, and rethinking training models are essential for progress.
• Breaking the silence around parenthood normalizes positive changes.