Association of Women Surgeons’ Comprehensive Initiative for Healthy Surgical Families During Residency and Fellowship Training

Abstract

ImportanceThe lack of family-friendly policies continues to contribute to the underrepresentation and attrition of surgical trainees. Women in surgery face unique challenges in balancing surgical education with personal and family needs.ObservationsThe Association of Women Surgeons is committed to supporting surgical families and developing equitable family-friendly guidelines. Herein we detail recommendations for adequate paid parental leave, access to childcare, breastfeeding support, and insurance coverage of fertility preservation and assisted reproductive technology.Conclusions and RelevanceThe specific recommendations outlined in this document form the basis of a comprehensive initiative for supporting surgical families.