BIPOC Women and Infertility: Addressing Disparities in Care

Infertility, or the inability to conceive naturally, is a challenging issue that affects millions of women. About 12% of women of reproductive age struggle with fertility, but for women of color, the numbers are often even higher.

Black women, for instance, are twice as likely to face infertility compared to white women but are less likely to seek fertility treatments. Several barriers, including cultural differences, misinformation, discomfort with healthcare providers, and lack of support, contribute to this disparity, highlighting the unique challenges women of color face when it comes to fertility.

 

The color of fertility

Infertility, defined as the inability to achieve pregnancy after 12 months or more of regular unprotected sex, can be a lonely and isolating experience. Even in 2024, some cultures and communities still consider the topic "taboo," and women of color are often part of these communities.

Fertility Access

Accessing infertility treatments, such as assisted reproductive technology (ART) and fertility care services, remains a significant challenge for many. Recent data shows that less than 25% of people who seek infertility treatment are able to get the care they need. Barriers are often linked to socioeconomic factors, but geographical and cultural issues also play a role.

For instance, research shows that Asian/Pacific Islander and Black women often experience longer periods of infertility before consulting a healthcare professional. Additionally, same-sex couples, people with disabilities, and LGBTQIA+ individuals face other obstacles to accessing these essential services.

Same-sex couples, for example, may find it more difficult to receive infertility treatment, even if they have insurance. Some public and private insurers require proof of infertility, such as six months of unprotected vaginal sex, before covering the costs of treatments.

Intersectionality in healthcare

Your physical identity—whether you are a woman, a man, Black, Asian, disabled, or other—deeply shapes how you experience the world. These labels influence how others perceive and treat you. This is where the concept of "intersectionality" comes in.

Intersectionality, a term introduced by scholar Kimberlé Williams Crenshaw in 1991, helps us understand the complexities of each person’s identity and how different aspects intersect with one another. Some examples of intersectional identities include:

  • Race
  • Gender identity
  • Sex
  • Socioeconomic background
  • Social status
  • Disability
  • Nationality
  • Education level

Research shows that certain identities face greater barriers to accessing adequate healthcare, including reproductive care like infertility treatments. Understanding intersectionality sheds light on why women of color often struggle more with infertility.

Women's reproductive health is already underfunded and under-researched, and people of color are frequently underrepresented in research. Additionally, cultural, socioeconomic, genetic, or environmental factors can further complicate health issues for these communities.

Asian American and Pacific Islanders (AAPI)

Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) women, on average, experience higher rates of infertility, seek treatment later and have lower success rates with fertility treatments compared to their white counterparts. Unfortunately, there is limited data that clearly explains the reasons behind lower fertility rates in the AAPI community.

Additionally, cultural factors play a role, as Asian women are often less likely to seek fertility counseling due to societal pressures to conceive and feelings of hopelessness, loss of control, anger, resentment, and low life satisfaction.

Latinx and Hispanic

Hispanic women report higher rates of infertility compared to white women, yet they are significantly underrepresented among those receiving infertility treatment. A review of data from the Society of Assisted Reproductive Technology found that Hispanic patients make up less than 6% of ART (Assisted Reproductive Technology) patients.

Barriers to accessing treatment may include language differences, geographical challenges, and cultural emphasis on privacy. As a result, Hispanic couples or individuals dealing with infertility may feel less comfortable discussing these issues with a healthcare professional.

African American

Black women are twice as likely to experience infertility as their white counterparts. Cultural stigmas and a shortage of Black sperm and egg donors are just some of the obstacles that hinder Black women’s access to infertility treatments.

Additionally, Black women are more likely to be cautious of healthcare professionals due to the fear of discrimination they can face in medical settings. Numerous studies show that Black women are more likely to encounter inequities in nearly all aspects of reproductive care, regardless of their income or education level.

Navigating equitable and inclusive infertility treatments

The discussion around intersectionality and infertility is crucial, as many groups remain underserved. For women of color, LGBTQIA+ individuals, and those with disabilities, it may require extra effort to find the answers and support you need. If you’re concerned about infertility, here are a few things to consider:

  • Don’t wait to seek advice from your ObGyn, midwife, or healthcare provider. If you’ve been trying to conceive for six months to a year without success, it’s important to start conversations with your doctor to discuss what tests or screenings might be necessary.
  • Understand some of the common gynecological reasons behind infertility. Conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), endometriosis, and uterine fibroids can increase the likelihood of infertility. By working with your Women’s Health Connecticut provider, you may be able to improve your chances of becoming pregnant.
  • Connect with community resources and support groups—infertility can be a lonely experience, but building a community can help you connect with others facing similar challenges and offer mutual support.

 

At Women’s Health Connecticut, we are dedicated to providing equitable care for every patient. Our comprehensive services include fertility assessments and support for women on their journey to becoming pregnant. Contact us today to request an appointment and see how we can help you with compassionate, patient-centered care.