# Barriers and opportunities for female participation in orthopedic surgery: An Indian perspective

## TL;DR

In India, very few women choose orthopedic surgery due to issues like lack of mentorship, gender bias, and work-life balance concerns.

## Contribution

The study identifies specific barriers and proposes solutions to increase female participation in orthopedic surgery in India.

## Key findings

- Only 1% of orthopedic surgeons in India are women.
- Female trainees show low interest in orthopedics despite its career benefits.
- Societal stereotypes and lack of female role models strongly influence career choices.

## Abstract

Orthopedic surgery remains one of the least gender-diverse medical specialties in India, with women comprising only about 1% of the
workforce. Therefore, it is of interest to explore the barriers that deter female medical students and early-career doctors from pursuing
orthopedics, including lack of mentorship, perceived physical demands, gender bias, and concerns over work-life balance. A cross-sectional
survey of 250 female trainees across India revealed low interest in orthopedics despite recognition of its financial and career potential.
Societal stereotypes and absence of female role models significantly influenced career preferences. Addressing these barriers through
structured mentorship, inclusivity in training, and gender-sensitive reforms may improve female representation in orthopedics.