Female Neurosurgeons in Europe-On a Prevailing Glass Ceiling

Abstract

Background: Almost one half of currently practicing physicians in Europe are women. Despite advances in access to training positions and the entry of women into neurosurgery, it has remained a male-dominated field, with an underrepresentation of female leaders. We designed a 2-part study to better understand the current situation of European female neurosurgeons.

Methods: The European Association of Neurosurgical Societies and its member societies were analyzed for female participation in leadership positions. Additionally, an online survey was designed, containing 33 questions about career choice, mentorship, family planning, and perceived obstacles, for women in neurosurgery.

Results: A total of 116 responses were received. Most female neurosurgeons lacked same-gender role models (76%), although most reported that having a female mentor would be important (58%). An overwhelming majority (86%) believe family planning takes on a more important role for women, and 72% reported worrying their career prospects could be negatively affected by their desire to have children. The greatest obstacle perceived was the prevailing inequality in opportunities (30%) and attaining leadership positions (24%). Most (81%) reported that women have different concerns regarding their career from men, and 72% also reported feeling at a disadvantage as a woman. Most (66%) also believe should be a "Women in Neurosurgery" committee within the European Association of Neurosurgical Societies.

Conclusions: Unfortunately, a gender gap still exists in European neurosurgery. The extent thereof has not yet been systematically analyzed. Our project offers a glimpse into the inequalities and obstacles women perceive in our field; however, more comprehensive data are required.

Keywords: EANS; Glass ceiling; Women in medicine; Women in neurosurgery; Women in surgery.