The COVID-19 pandemic and OBGYN residency training: We have a problem and it’s not just masks

Abstract Background The COVID-19 pandemic has left no one untouched. Resident trainees have been driven to reconsider virtually every component of their daily lives. The purpose of this pilot study is to evaluate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on Obstetrics and Gynecology (OBGYN) residency training and education. Methods A cross-sectional pilot study was conducted between 2/2022 and 5/2022. A survey was created and distributed to OBGYN residents. The survey queried the effects of the pandemic on OBGYN residents’ procedure skills training and mental health. Results A total of 95 OBGYN residents across programs affiliated with each American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) district participated in the survey. Among them, just over half ( n = 52, 55%) self-identified as under-represented minorities. A significant majority, 80% ( n = 81), felt their gynecological training was inadequate, with 70% of fourth-year residents expressing a lack of confidence in their ability to independently practice gynecology after graduation. This lack of confidence among fourth-year residents suggests a notable disparity in readiness for independent gynecological practice, linked to meeting ACGME requirements before completing their residency ( p = 0.013). Among the residents who reported a negative impact of the pandemic on their mental health ( n = 76, 80%), about 40% ( n = 31) had contemplated self-harm or knew a colleague who considered or attempted suicide ( p < 0.001). This issue was especially pronounced in residents experiencing burnout ( n = 44, 46%), as nearly half ( n = 19, 43%) reported suicidal thoughts or knew someone in their program who had such thoughts or engaged in self-harm ( p = 0.048). Conclusions Residents expressed concerns about reduced hands-on gynecological training and doubts about their readiness for independent practice post-residency, highlighting the need for enhanced support through mentorship and revised training curriculums. Additionally, despite the availability of mental health resources to address pandemic-induced burnout, their underuse suggests a need for more accessible time for residents to use at their discretion and flexible training schedules that encourage mental health support resource utilization.