Surgeons, Pregnancy, and Work Demands - Scorecard - MDSpire

Surgeons, Pregnancy, and Work Demands

Lack of workplace support linked to pregnancy outcomes.

  • By

  • Kathryn Wighton

  • March 23, 2026

  • 3 min

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Clinical Scorecard: Surgeons, Pregnancy, and Work Demands

At a Glance

CategoryDetail
ConditionObstetric complications in female surgeons
Key MechanismsLack of workplace support and long working hours
Target PopulationFemale surgeons and their childbearing partners
Care SettingSurgical practice

Key Highlights

  • 31% of female surgeons reported obstetric complications compared to 23% of partners of male surgeons.
  • Lack of workplace support was reported by over 50% of respondents, with 64% of female surgeons affected.
  • Working more than 60 hours per week increased the risk of complications.
  • Multiple gestation was associated with a six to seven times higher risk of complications.
  • Qualitative responses highlighted barriers such as long hours and inadequate parental leave.

Guideline-Based Recommendations

Diagnosis

  • Monitor for obstetric complications in female surgeons.

Management

  • Implement workplace support policies to reduce risks.

Monitoring & Follow-up

  • Regular assessment of work conditions and their impact on pregnancy outcomes.

Risks

  • Increased risk of complications associated with lack of support and long working hours.

Patient & Prescribing Data

Female surgeons and their childbearing partners

Address modifiable work conditions to improve pregnancy outcomes.

Clinical Best Practices

  • Encourage flexible work arrangements for pregnant surgeons.
  • Promote awareness of the impact of work demands on pregnancy.
  • Support policies that enhance parental leave for surgical staff.

References

Original Source(s)

Surgeons, Pregnancy, and Work Demands

  • by Kathryn Wighton

  • March 23, 2026

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