Navigating Parenthood during Medical Training
Aims:
There is limited understanding of the impact of parenthood on doctors in medical training in Ireland. We aimed to identify key challenges faced by trainees focusing on childcare, breast-feeding, the return to work, and the impact of parenthood on medical careers and training.
Methods:
This study was a multi-centre, cross-sectional survey of parents in medical training in a national medical training body. All 1,849 trainees were invited to participate through email. A survey was created and distributed using the online survey platform Qualtrics. Descriptive statistical analysis was performed using the survey platform.
Results:
Two hundred five trainees met the inclusion criteria of being a parent whilst in medical training. 131/205 (63%) were required to live away from their families during their training. 178/191 (93%) reported that childcare limitations impact their training and 186/187 (99%) felt that parenthood influences their training, research, and career opportunities. 104/187 (56%) had considered leaving their specialty and 97(52%) considered leaving their career in medicine due to family commitments.
Discussion:
Being a parent during medical training presents unique challenges that impact both personal and family life. There is a need to explore how we can best support our trainees who are parents and enable them to lead both fulfilling personal and professional lives.
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