Professional Experience and Gender Equity Among Female Colorectal Surgeons in Italy
Overview
A national survey of 119 female colorectal surgeons in Italy revealed significant gender disparities in operative exposure, career advancement, and workplace environment. Many respondents reported limited surgical opportunities, frequent microaggressions, ergonomic challenges, and difficulties balancing maternity with professional duties.
Background
Despite increasing numbers of women entering medicine, female surgeons remain underrepresented in demanding specialties like colorectal surgery. Prior studies have documented gender gaps in operative experience, leadership roles, and mentorship, which impact career progression and workforce diversity. In Italy, the specific experiences of female colorectal surgeons had not been previously studied, prompting this national survey to explore professional exposure, workplace dynamics, and gender equity issues.
Data Highlights
Characteristic
Number of Respondents
Percentage
Total respondents
119
100%
Age <35 years
39
33%
Age 35-45 years
45
38%
Age >45 years
35
29%
Trainees
24
20%
General surgeons with colorectal emphasis
74
62%
Colorectal specialists
17
14%
Colorectal/proctologic surgeons
20
17%
Proctologists
8
7%
Employed in public hospitals
104
87%
Fixed-term contracts
86
72%
Precarious contracts
23
19%
Self-employed
10
8%
Units with <5 women
83
70%
Units with female-to-male ratio ~30%
78
66%
Respondents spending >60% time in OR
33
28%
Respondents spending <30% time in OR
36
30%
Centers performing >5 major colorectal procedures/week
24
20%
Centers performing <5 major colorectal procedures/week
91
76%
Respondents as first/second surgeon in <30% cases
52
44%
Respondents as first surgeon in <10% major procedures
82
69%
Reported gender influenced career advancement
109
92%
Reported differential treatment vs male colleagues
92
77%
Reported ergonomic difficulties with instruments
109
92%
Reported inadequate rest facilities
67
56%
Respondents who had been pregnant
44
37%
Delayed return to full duties after maternity leave
26
59% of pregnant respondents
Key Findings
Majority of female colorectal surgeons reported limited operative exposure, with 69% acting as first surgeon in fewer than 10% of major procedures.
Over 90% perceived gender as influencing career advancement, and 77% reported differential treatment compared to male colleagues.
Microaggressions were common, negatively impacting the work environment for 92 respondents.
Ergonomic challenges with standard surgical instruments were widespread, reported by 92% of participants.
More than half reported inadequate rest facilities at work.
Maternity impacted professional trajectories, with 59% of those pregnant experiencing delayed return to full duties and some lacking structured reintegration.
Clinical Implications
These findings highlight the need for targeted interventions to improve operative opportunities and equitable case assignments for female colorectal surgeons. Addressing workplace ergonomics and infrastructure can enhance comfort and performance. Institutions should develop structured maternity leave and reintegration policies to support career continuity. Anti-sexism initiatives and transparent promotion criteria are essential to foster an inclusive surgical environment.
Conclusion
This first national survey of female colorectal surgeons in Italy reveals persistent gender disparities affecting operative exposure, career progression, and workplace conditions. Implementing multifaceted strategies is critical to promote gender equity and optimize professional experiences in this demanding surgical specialty.
References
Women in Surgery Italia & Italian Society of Colorectal Surgery, 2025 -- Professional Experience and Gender Equity Among Female Colorectal Surgeons in Italy: Findings from a National Survey
