Operating room reproductive hazards for female surgeons
Higher rates of infertility and pregnancy complications have been found for female surgeons compared with the general population. Occupational hazards exist in the operating room that may be factors in increased rates of infertility and adverse pregnancy outcomes for surgeons. It is important for the workplace and surgeons to understand what information is available. At a minimum, workplaces need to comply with existing guidelines or standards, recognizing that these may not be protective for reproductive outcomes, and so that it may be wise to do more. Alternative work duties and/or conditions should be readily available. Priority should be given to controlling exposure rather than restricting surgeons’ activity.
Researchers in this review article discuss occupational reproductive hazards for female surgeons in the operating room, including radiation exposure, surgical smoke, working conditions and physical demands, sharps injuries, anesthetic gases and the use of toxic agents.
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