Abstract
BackgroundIn several countries, maternity protection legislations (MPL) confer an essential role to gynecologist-obstetricians (OBGYNs) for the protection of pregnant workers and their future children from occupational exposures. This study explores OBGYNs’ practices and difficulties in implementing MPL in the French-speaking part of Switzerland.MethodsAn online survey was sent to 333 OBGYNs. Data analysis included: 1) descriptive and correlational statistics and 2) hierarchical cluster analysis to identify patterns of practices.ResultsOBGYNs evoked several problems in MPL implementation: absence of risk analysis in the companies, difficult collaboration with employers, lack of competencies in the field of occupational health. Preventive leave was underused, with sick leave being prescribed instead. Training had a positive effect on OBGYNs’ knowledge and implementation of MPL. Hierarchical cluster analysis highlighted three main types of practices: 1) practice in line with legislation; 2) practice on a case-by-case basis; 3) limited practice. OBGYNs with good knowledge of MPL more consistently applied its provisions.ConclusionThe implementation of MPL appears challenging for OBGYNs. Collaboration with occupational physicians and training might help OBGYNs to better take on their role in maternity protection. MPL in itself could be improved.
Highlights
From the public health and health promotion perspectives, pregnancy-related care is essential given that the health of future generations is already determined by babies’ lives within the womb [1]
Collaboration with occupational physicians and training might help OBGYNs to better take on their role in maternity protection
These results demonstrate the need to improve the implementation of maternity protection legislation (MPL) among companies in Switzerland
Summary
From the public health and health promotion perspectives, pregnancy-related care is essential given that the health of future generations is already determined by babies’ lives within the womb [1]. Switzerland has a liberal labor legislation, with little state intervention [13] It confers companies a lot of decisional power and a relatively small amount of control and sanctions [13]. The study has been conducted in French speaking cantons of Switzerland (Vaud, Valais, Genève, Fribourg, Jura and Neuchatel). This part of Switzerland comprises about 1⁄4 (2 211 571 inhabitants) of the total Swiss population. In 2017, when the study has been conducted, 26 526 births were registered in the six French speaking cantons [16] In this area, the three most dominant economic sectors for women are: the healthcare, the retail sector and the education [17]. This study explores OBGYNs’ practices and difficulties in implementing MPL in the French-speaking part of Switzerland
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
