Background: Patients frequently have questions about how IBD influences pregnancy. Both patients and providers should have a clear understanding of the risks of IBD and the risks and benefits of continuing IBD treatments in the pregnant patient. We sought to assess knowledge about pregnancy and IBD in trainees in specialties that might interact with these patients. Methods: ACGME program directors for internal medicine (IM), gastroenterology (GI), obstetrics-gynecology (OB), and maternal-fetal medicine (MFM) were identified and asked to send their trainees an email containing an anonymous survey. This survey included demographic questions and the Crohn’s and Colitis Pregnancy Knowledge (CCPKnow) tool, a validated multiple-choice questionnaire to assess pregnancy-related issues in IBD. Results were analyzed using descriptive statistics, t-tests, and ANOVA where appropriate. Results: 240 trainees responded with a survey completion rate of 88%. Respondents included 79 trainees in IM, 42 in GI, 65 in OB, and 24 in MFM. Trainees were mostly female (67%). 31 (15%) had a family member or friend with IBD. 37 (18%) frequently encountered IBD patients. The average CCPKnow test score was 78% (median 82%, SD 20). Trainees in GI (91%) and MFM (92%) had significantly higher scores than those in IM (68%) and OB (75%) (overall ANOVA p<0.001). There was no difference between GI and MFM trainees. GI trainees’ scores improved during fellowship (PGY4 85%; PGY5 91%; PGY6 95%). Interestingly, scores on questions covering more challenging topics such as the risk of a child inheriting IBD, the risk of birth defects if a mother has IBD, and the safety of azathioprine/6-MP and anti-TNFs in pregnancy were similar across specialties. Conclusions: Trainees in GI and MFM have higher pregnancy-related IBD knowledge than those in IM and OB. Patients with IBD should be encouraged to follow with a GI and MFM before conception and during pregnancy to ensure high quality care.
