Navigating Pregnancy and Parenthood During Otolaryngology Training and Beyond

PROGRAM DESCRIPTION: In a recently published systematic review, researchers highlighted significant challenges faced by pregnant surgical residents, including an increased risk of obstetrical complications compared to the general population. Key residency-related predictors of complications included:
1. Working more than six overnight call shifts.
2. Working over 60 hours per week.
The review also revealed a persistent issue within surgical training: negative attitudes and perceptions toward pregnant residents. These stigmas persist despite evidence showing that pregnant residents perform equally to their peers in areas such as attrition rates, caseload completion, and board exam success. Another study further underscored the strain, reporting that 39% of surveyed residents had strongly considered leaving surgical training due to pregnancy-related challenges, and nearly 30% discouraged female medical students from pursuing surgical specialties.
As we strive to enhance gender diversity in surgical fields, these findings underscore the urgent need to address both systemic barriers and cultural stigmas. This panel will explore ways to better support childbearing surgeons and foster a more inclusive surgical environment. Join Dr. Dana Crosby (Chair/Program Director, SIU), Dr. Tiffany Glazer (Program Director, UW-Madison), and Dr. Henya Sandhaus (Fellow, University of Utah) as they share insights on navigating pregnancy and parenthood during otolaryngology training. Discussions will include actionable steps and discussion of a proposed pregnancy protocol designed to improve safety, support, and equity for pregnant surgeons.

OUTCOME OBJECTIVE 1: Recognize the professional and personal barriers female surgeons face during pregnancy and motherhood.

OUTCOME OBJECTIVE 2: Explore ways colleagues, staff, and leadership can actively support pregnant residents and address cultural challenges.

OUTCOME OBJECTIVE 3: Understand the importance of formal policies and protocols to create a safer and more supportive environment for pregnant surgeons.

BACKGROUND STATEMENT: Pregnancy and parenthood present unique challenges for female surgeons. This panel presentation aims to elicit a discussion among trainees and leadership to identify strategies and policies that would provide meaningful and measurable support to pregnant trainees and attendings.

Comprehensive Otolaryngology Track Statement :