(PO-055) The Experience of Student Mothers in United States Dental Schools

Author: Cassidy Hine, Hine, M.P.H. – University of Utah School of Dentistry
Author: Mikele Rumbaugh, RDH – University of Utah School of Dentistry
Author: Jeri Bullock, D.D.S. – Associate Dean of Clinical Affairs, University of Utah School of Dentistry
Submitter: Cassidy Hine, Hine, M.P.H. – University of Utah School of Dentistry

Objective: The purpose of this study was to examine the experiences of student mothers in United States dental schools and to understand issues related to family planning, pregnancy and childbirth, lactation, and parenting. Existing research demonstrates a lack of adequate policies and services to support student and resident parents in medical and veterinary training. However, there is little to no data on dental students who are parents. A 2016 American Student Dental Association resolution encouraged schools to enact written leave policies for students who are pregnant, postpartum or parenting. It is unclear how many schools have enacted such policies, and what the level of awareness is of these policies among current dental students.

Methods: This study utilized confidential online surveys sent to each of the 67 dental schools in the United States and Puerto Rico. The 418 respondents were from 18 schools across 17 states and territories. The survey consisted of closed- and open-ended questions about female participants’ experiences. 
 

Results: Among the 418 respondents, 47 (11.2%) reported that they were a parent or pregnant. The parenting students were on average older and more likely to be married than non-parenting students. 78% of students were not aware of any family leave policies at their dental school. While 93% of student mothers feel supported by their families, 54% felt supported by dental school faculty and only 40% felt supported by dental school administration.
 

Conclusions: The results provide insights into an important aspect of student wellness that has been overlooked in the current literature. As dental school classes have become proportionally more female and older on average, there may also be an increase in student mothers in dental schools. This study points to ways schools can support parenting students, and also provides a foundation for further research.