Gender Diversity in Surgery: A Review

Purpose of Review: This review aims to describe the gender disparity in surgery by highlighting the disparate treatment and experiences of women and men in both surgical practice and training. This review will discuss disparities in career advancement and compensation, leadership positions, and recognition in achievement, as well as the mistreatment of women, and challenges related to pregnancy and motherhood. Additionally, this review will provide individuals, hospitals, and societies with actionable advice on how to improve the surgical environment for female surgeons, and work toward gender parity in surgery. Recent Findings: Women comprise a greater proportion of medical students and residents nation-wide. However, the percentage of female surgical residents is not yet proportionate to male surgical residents, and this gap only widens within surgical subspecialties. As academic surgeons, women are promoted within academia at rates slower than men, are less represented in leadership positions than men, and are disproportionately compensated compared to men. Female surgeons regularly encounter gender-based discrimination and mistreatment, which negatively impacts both their careers and psychological well-being. Compared to male surgical residents, female surgical residents have less support, are evaluated differently, are recognized for their achievements more infrequently, and are given less operative autonomy. Female surgeons additionally face a number of challenges with respect to childbearing and motherhood. Summary: Gender-based disparities are pervasive in surgery. However, recent attention to this important topic has shed light on the scope of the problem, and the many opportunities for change. With increased focus on workforce disparities, and the associated impact it has on recruitment, career satisfaction, and physical and psychological well-being, improvements can be made.