Clin Colon Rectal Surg 2019; 32(06): 450-456
DOI: 10.1055/s-0039-1693012
Review Article
Thieme Medical Publishers 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.

The Pregnant Surgeon

Cristina R. Harnsberger
1   Division of Colon and Rectal Surgery, University of Massachusetts Memorial Medical Center, Worcester, Massachusetts
,
Jennifer S. Davids
1   Division of Colon and Rectal Surgery, University of Massachusetts Memorial Medical Center, Worcester, Massachusetts
› Author Affiliations
Further Information

Publication History

Publication Date:
22 August 2019 (online)

Abstract

The proportion of women entering medicine and surgery is increasing steadily. As more women surgeons have children during residency and practice, it is essential that we adopt a team approach to the pregnant surgeon, as a pregnancy undoubtedly impacts the team and not just the individual. Coauthored by a practicing surgeon mother of 2 (J. D.) and a postgraduate year 8 colorectal surgery fellow mother of 2 who is currently pregnant (C. H.), we aim to review the data while providing some practical advice for pregnant surgeons and those considering pregnancy, as well as their valued colleagues, mentors, and administrators. Physical challenges are discussed by trimester, as are the risks facing the pregnant surgeon, the logistics of transitioning in and out of maternity leave, and postpartum considerations.