In October 2023 we released the RACS breastfeeding policy, the first of several guidance documents and policies aimed at supporting our surgical colleagues through pregnancy and parenthood.  

It is becoming increasingly clear our occupation has a significant impact on health and wellbeing of surgical parents, women surgeons and our families, with higher rates of infertility, pregnancy loss, and complications during pregnancy than the general population (Ref 1 and 2).  

A survey of Australian and Aotearoa New Zealand medical parents’ experiences suggest detrimental impact on health and wellbeing continues during parenthood. Trainees, Fellows and Specialist International Medical Graduates (SIMGs) often wean their babies earlier than recommended by international guidelines due to workplace demands and insufficient organisational support (Ref 1).

The Women in Surgery (WIS) section committee acknowledges only a small portion of our Fellows have personal experience with the demands faced by breastfeeding parent and understanding the organisational provisions. We hope this policy can help clarify and address these issues.

Our policy is aimed at Fellows, Trainees and SIMGs, specifically outlining the roles and responsibilities of RACS, employers, and supervisors so we can support each other and provide the ideal environment to allow our new parents to thrive. Providing facilities for breastfeeding or pumping is now a requirement for training post accreditation, but we need everyone’s help to enact this policy in the wider workplace and to change culture.

“An unsupportive culture may deter women considering a career in surgery and could lead to Trainees leaving the program,” says Tracey Barnes, a SET Trainee, member of the Women in Surgery Section (WISS)committee and contributor to RACS breastfeeding policy.

“Above all, supportive colleagues are crucial to fostering a breastfeeding-friendly workplace,” Dr Pecky De Silva, current chair of the WIS section said.

The WIS committee is advocating for increased support for those who wish to breastfeed—emphasising its importance for the health of surgeons’ health and their families. It is also a normal part of life, work, and training rather than an exceptional circumstance. The policy provides practical steps and recommendations for workplaces, supervisors and individuals.

Dr Nadya York, a urologist based in Aotearoa New Zealand who is the deputy chair of the WIS committee and co-author of the policy, said the policy is both informative and practical. “Our policy covers suitable lactation breaks, appropriate facilities, and the use of the newest wearable breast pumps. We hope the policy serves as a blueprint for how you can support your breastfeeding colleagues and Trainees.”

The WISS have long acknowledged the barriers women face in becoming surgeons. The committee is dedicated to workforce diversity and equity, removing obstacles and encouraging more women to consider a career in surgery.

Want to learn more, become involved or show your support? Join the RACS Women in Surgery section or complete our microlearning activity (1 CPD point professionalism). Membership is open to Fellows, Trainees, SIMGs, junior doctors and medical students.

References
1.    Kevric, J. A survey of Australian and New Zealand medical parents' experiences of infertility, pregnancy, and parenthood. Front Med (Lausanne) 2022
2.    Rangel E.L et al. Incidence of infertility and pregnancy complications in US female surgeons. JAMA Surgery (2021) 156 (10): pp.905-915