“I wish I had been more surgeon-like in my approach”: A qualitative exploration of breastfeeding in women in surgery

Women surgeons encounter unique challenges in breastfeeding and lactation, influenced by early postpartum return to work, limited childcare options, and inadequate institutional supports. This qualitative study examined the infant-feeding experiences of Canadian women surgeons and trainees, with a focus on breastfeeding and pumping. Participants were recruited through social media, and semi-structured interviews explored motivations, barriers, and workplace experiences. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed, and analyzed using constructivist grounded theory with iterative open and focused coding to identify common themes. Sixteen participants across five surgical specialties were included. Three themes emerged: strong personal motivations to breastfeed; substantial structural and systemic barriers, including lack of protected time and private space; and pervasive feelings of guilt and judgment related to feeding choices. These findings highlight persistent obstacles to lactation in surgical environments and underscore the need for targeted institutional, policy, and cultural interventions to better support surgeon-mothers in achieving their infant-feeding goals.