Parenthood and Family Building Challenges Among Cardiothoracic Surgery Trainees

BACKGROUND: The demands of cardiothoracic (CT) surgical training may impact family planning and parenthood for trainees. This study examines CT surgery trainee experiences with family planning, parenthood, perinatal care, and breastfeeding.

METHODS: A cross-sectional national survey was conducted after the completion of the 2024 Thoracic Surgery Directors Association In-Training Exam. The 17-item questionnaire consisted of questions regarding family planning, parenthood, postpartum, and perinatal care.

RESULTS: Among 454 trainees, 99 (21.8%) were pregnant or their partner was pregnant during CT surgery training. Most trainees were men (80.8% [n = 80]). CT surgery training resulted in 43% (39 of 90) of trainees changing their family plan. Only 18% (18 of 99) of trainees indicated they received institutional resources on family planning; 24% (24 of 99) received information on childcare support. Among CT surgery trainees who gave birth, 11 of 14 (78.6%) breastfed; 4 trainees (36.3%) reported backlash for breastfeeding. Approximately half of women who breastfed felt they had convenient pumping spaces at their institution to do so. Women trainees had a higher likelihood of being recommended to consider an "easier" specialty due to parenthood compared with men (7 of 16; 44% vs 6%, P = .03).

CONCLUSIONS: Approximately 20% of CT surgery trainees are either pregnant or have a pregnant partner during CT surgery training. Several barriers pertaining to family planning, parenthood, parental leave, perinatal care, and breastfeeding persist. Policies and implementation of these policies are needed to support parenthood and family planning among CT surgery trainees.