Parenting in Surgery: A Structured Initiative to Support Surgeons Navigating Pregnancy and Early Parenthood During...

We sought to explore key obstacles faced by surgical trainees navigating pregnancy and early parenthood, identify opportunities for improved programmatic support, and assess the effectiveness of our institution's Parenting in Surgery initiative in addressing these challenges.

In this sequential exploratory mixed methods study, we conducted semi-structured interviews with surgical trainees and junior faculty who were parents or expectant parents. The "Parenting in Surgery" initiative was developed to address concerns identified by interviewees. A postimplementation survey assessing perceptions of parenting during training was sent to all surgical residents 17 months after initiative launch.

This study was conducted at a large, urban academic medical center.

Thirteen trainees and junior faculty participated in semi-structured interviews. Seventeen trainees completed the postimplementation survey.

Interviewees identified 5 themes: (1) Fear of appearing weak results in reticence to ask for help; (2) Physical demands of pregnancy vary for individuals; (3) Challenges during the postpartum period are often overlooked; (4) Emotional challenges are unspoken and isolating; and (5) Financial and logistical obstacles create an additional layer of stress. In the postimplementation survey, participants were most concerned about having a healthy pregnancy and child, managing the workload of residency, and the financial strain of family planning and parenting. While 71% felt comfortable confiding in co-residents or faculty, only 35% thought the program's infrastructure provides support. Knowledge of existing resources was mixed, with 60% and 24% of respondents reporting knowing where to access family leave and family planning information, respectively. 40% of respondents were aware of childcare resources.

This study highlights persistent gaps in institutional support for surgical trainees becoming parents. The Parenting in Surgery initiative provides structured protocols and resources, however additional efforts are needed to effectively increase awareness. Ongoing evaluation is critical for ensuring these initiatives adequately support trainees and foster long-term satisfaction.