Parental Leave and Lactation Policies in Breast Imaging: Insights from a National Survey of U.S. Radiologists

To assess variability in parental leave and lactation policies affecting breast radiologists and examine their associations with job satisfaction and burnout.

An anonymous 43-question survey was distributed to U.S.-based physician members of the Society of Breast Imaging between December 2023 and February 2024. Questions assessed parental leave and lactation policies, workplace experiences, and validated items on job satisfaction and burnout. Descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and multivariable linear regression were performed.

262 respondents (8.0% [262/3275] response rate) completed the survey. The mean age was 47 ± 10.4 years, with an average of 14.6 ± 10 years of post-training experience; 86% (223/262) identified as women. Among respondents, 61% (160/262) were aware of their workplace's parental leave policy, which included a median of 6 weeks of paid leave (IQR 10). Forty percent (88/220) were unsure if a lactation policy existed, 57% (125/220) reported no dedicated lactation time, and 72% (147/220) were unaware of a designated lactation space. Most respondents (87% [191/219]) said these policies were not discussed during job interviews, though 59% (128/216) considered them important when choosing a job. One-third (72/262) had welcomed a child within the last five years. Among these, 39% (27/69) reported insufficient lactation support, and 26% (18/69) stopped breastfeeding earlier than desired due to work constraints. Lactation support was inversely correlated with burnout (r = -0.516, P < 0.001) and positively correlated with job satisfaction (r = 0.440, P < 0.001).

Improved transparency and institutional investment in parental leave and lactation policies by radiology practices may support well-being and retention of breast radiologists.