@article{2e8cc989cd9f4743a0bddc8c78a99c79,
title = "Perspectives of pregnancy and motherhood among general surgery residents: A qualitative analysis",
abstract = "Introduction: Prior work shows pregnancy during surgical residency may negatively impact career satisfaction and increase risk of attrition. We sought to gain deeper insight into the experience of childbearing trainees. Methods: An electronic survey with three open-ended questions was sent to surgeons who had ≥1 pregnancy during a US general surgery training program. Transcripts were analyzed using directed content analysis and the constant comparative approach. Results: Six themes characterized the pregnancy experience of 219 surgeons in residency. Respondents: 1)desired work modifications during the late stages of pregnancy due to health concerns; 2)regarded maternity leave as too short; 3)perceived stigma related to pregnancy; 4)expressed need for greater lactation and childcare support; 5)desired mentorship on work-family integration; 6)placed value on supportive colleagues and faculty. Conclusion: Pregnancy is challenging during surgical residency. These findings may inform policy changes to improve retention and recruitment of women trainees who wish to begin families during residency.",
keywords = "Attrition, Motherhood, Parenting, Pregnancy, Surgical residency",
author = "Rangel, {Erika L.} and Manuel Castillo-Angeles and Marguerite Changala and Haider, {Adil H.} and Doherty, {Gerard M.} and Smink, {Douglas S.}",
note = "Funding Information: This study has several limitations. First, the design relied on self-reports which are prone to recall and social desirability biases. Second, the use of physician mothers{\textquoteright} support groups in social media may have introduced selection bias, as opinions within those groups may not be representative of all surgical trainee mothers in the US. Third, the transition to fellowship start dates to August 1st started in 201435 and revision of published ABS leave policies took place in 201726; these may affect how future residents experience maternity leave. Future work must examine if these changes in policies alter resident perception of flexible or extended leave. Lastly, relationships and perceptions in surgical training programs are multidimensional and the perspectives of colleagues, faculty, and program directors were not explored. However, this study was designed to understand childbearing and motherhood as experienced by the pregnant resident. Publisher Copyright: {\textcopyright} 2018 Elsevier Inc.",
year = "2018",
month = oct,
doi = "10.1016/j.amjsurg.2018.07.036",
language = "English",
volume = "216",
pages = "754--759",
journal = "American Journal of Surgery",
issn = "0002-9610",
publisher = "Elsevier Inc.",
number = "4",
}