Practice and expectations regarding simulation for residents in obstetrics and gynecology.

Background: Simulation now has an important role in theoretical and practical aspects of medical education and training.

Methods: We performed an epidemiological, observational, multicenter study based on nationwide data collection. French obstetrics and gynecologic residents were invited to complete an anonymous survey.

Results: We received 305 answers. The most frequently offered gynecology sessions were laparoscopy on pelvitrainer (76%) and pelvic ultrasound (60%) while the most frequently offered obstetric sessions were breech delivery (61%), shoulder dystocia (62%) and postpartum hemorrhage (68%) managements. Regarding session frequency, 29.1% of residents thought that one session per month would be ideal. Two hundred and sixty three residents (96%) considered that simulation-training sessions were beneficial. One hundred and thirty-six residents (49%) had an opportunity to repeat sessions and a majority of them (96%) found a daily benefit following a training simulation session.

Conclusion: Simulation programs were extremely popular among the surveyed residents. To improve OBGYN resident training, simulation should be an integral part of residency programs.