66.3% of physician mothers experience gender discrimination: 7 insights

Physician Moms conducted a survey polling 5,782 physician mothers about their workplace experiences, according to a study published in JAMA Internal Medicine.

Here are seven insights:

1. Almost 80 percent reported any type of discrimination.

2. Of the respondents, 66.3 percent reported gender discrimination and 35.8 percent reported maternal discrimination.

3. Of physician mothers reporting maternal discrimination, 89.6 percent said the discrimination pertained to their pregnancy or maternity leave and 48.4 percent said it was because of breastfeeding in the workplace.

4. Approximately 38.8 percent of respondents reported nursing or other support staff being disrespectful.

5. Among the types of maternal discrimination, 39.2 percent cited not being involved in administrative decision making and 31.5 percent cited pay discrepancies between them and their male counterparts.

6. Study limitations include survey design, low response rate and potential selection bias, according to the study authors.

7. The researchers concluded, "To promote gender equity and retain high-quality physicians, employers should implement policies that reduce maternal discrimination and support gender equity such as longer paid maternity leave, backup child care, lactation support and increased schedule flexibility."

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