Pregnancy and maternity leave: AAWR survey results

In 1987 to obtain information regarding pregnancy and maternity leave policies in academic and private radiology departments, the American Association of Women Radiologists (AAWR) surveyed academic and private diagnostic radiology departments and academic radiation oncology departments in the United States and Canada. One hundred thirty-one diagnostic radiology departments and 30 radiation therapy departments responded to the questionnaire. Despite the increasing number of women entering the field of radiology, many departments do not have formal policies. Of those that do, there was a wide range of responses regarding details of maternity leave and duties during pregnancy. The AAWR recommends that every department develop a written pregnancy and maternity leave policy, which should be available to all current and prospective employees.