Barriers to Breastfeeding During Surgery Residency

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Surgical Residency
• Lactation Support

Background:

• Breastfeeding presents unique challenges for surgical residents returning to work.
• Existing support systems may not adequately address the needs of breastfeeding surgical residents.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the experiences of breastfeeding surgery residents.
• To identify barriers and opportunities for enhancing support for this population.

Main Methods:

• Online surveys distributed through the Association of Program Directors in Surgery.
• A separate survey targeted surgeon mothers who breastfed during residency.
• Data collected via a REDCap web-based application.

Main Results:

• 67% reported insufficient time for pumping; 56% lacked lactation room access.
• 69% experienced reduced milk supply; 64% breastfed for shorter durations due to time constraints.
• 59% felt uncomfortable requesting pumping accommodations.

Conclusions:

• Surgical residents encounter significant deficits in space, resources, and time for pumping.
• These deficiencies negatively impact breastfeeding duration.
• Establishing dedicated lactation rooms and fostering a supportive culture are essential.