Conflicts associated with physicians' pregnancies

Am J Psychiatry. 1983 Jul;140(7):902-4. doi: 10.1176/ajp.140.7.902.

Abstract

The authors surveyed clinical faculty and residents in one medical school to assess perceived stress related to working with a pregnant colleague. The majority acknowledged stress to themselves and their departments yet indicated that pregnancy had a humanizing effect on the work environment. Although most felt that the pregnant physician maintained her professional interests and efficiency, one-third reported women of childbearing age to be a hiring risk. A higher percentage of faculty than residents favored special considerations for pregnant physicians. The authors explore age, sex, and departmental differences and suggest that pregnancy in a physician generates conflicts in her colleagues.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Age Factors
  • Attitude of Health Personnel
  • Faculty, Medical
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Internship and Residency
  • Interprofessional Relations*
  • Male
  • Physicians, Women*
  • Pregnancy*
  • Schools, Medical
  • Sex Factors
  • Stress, Psychological / psychology