Reproductive planning and infertility: Training the next generation of surgeons

Background: Female surgeons face increased rates of fertility challenges compared to the general population. We aim to understand surgical trainees' understanding and perspectives on family planning. Methods: A 35-question survey was emailed to program directors at all US surgical residency programs for distribution to residents. Descriptive analyses were performed to evaluate resident understanding and perspectives on family planning and fertility treatments. Results: A total of 121 residents responded to the survey. Most were female (n = 78; 65 %). Responders indicated the need to postpone pregnancy during training (female: n = 48, 64 % vs male n = 18, 45 %; p = 0.09). Potential negative career consequences (n = 50; 42 %), limited leave benefits (n = 47; 39 %), and lack of childcare (n = 45; 38 %) were primary reasons for postponing pregnancy. Only nine responders (8 %) received fertility-preservation education. Conclusion: Surgical trainees delay pregnancy for career and social support concerns and are interested in reproductive preservation. Fertility education could provide needed support for trainees.