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.
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