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Parenthood among Surgeons in the US: Balancing Scalpels and Strollers
Abdullah Altaf1, Mujtaba Khalil, Miho Akabane
1From the Department of Surgery, Division of Surgical Oncology, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center and James Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH.
Journal of the American College of Surgeons
|February 19, 2026
Summary
Surgeons are more likely to become parents than non-surgeon physicians and the general population. Factors like marital status and income influence parenthood likelihood, with female surgeons facing unique challenges.
Area of Science:
- Medical Sociology
- Physician Workforce Studies
- Reproductive Health
Background:
- The demanding nature of surgical careers can impact work-life balance.
- Understanding the relationship between surgical practice and parenthood is crucial for physician well-being.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine if surgeons have a different likelihood of parenthood compared to non-surgeon physicians and the general population.
- To identify factors associated with parenthood among surgeons.
Main Methods:
- Utilized the American Community Survey (ACS) database from 2018-2022.
- Conducted multivariable logistic regression analyses to assess parenthood trends and influencing factors.
Main Results:
- Surgeons exhibited a higher parenthood rate (50.6%) than non-surgeon physicians (46.0%) and the general US population (lower prevalence).
- Higher income and being married were associated with increased odds of parenthood for surgeons.
- Female surgeons had lower odds of parenthood, linked to longer work hours and lower income compared to male surgeons.
Conclusions:
- Surgeons demonstrate a greater likelihood of parenthood compared to their non-physician and general population counterparts.
- Parenthood likelihood is significantly influenced by sex, marital status, and income, particularly for female surgeons.
