Women of Color
& Infertility
Q&A:
with Janelle Luk, MD
Infertility affects everyone regardless of age, gender, or race. As we enter Black History Month, we wanted to take a moment to acknowledge and highlight the need for greater awareness and attention to hopeful parents and women of color struggling with infertility.
For women of color, the lack of representation and silence surrounding infertility can often cause a sense of isolation. It can also cause discouragement in seeking fertility treatment or support. Even though studies suggest that women of color are almost twice as likely to experience infertility than white women, they seek medical help half as much. In fact, only about eight percent of black women between the ages of 25 and 44 seek medical treatment, compared to fifteen percent of white women.
A handful of women of color like Michelle Obama and Gabrielle Union have discussed their infertility struggles publicly and have given us a glimpse into what their journey towards parenthood has looked like – but we know it’s just not enough - it still seems to be a largely silent issue. A study conducted at the University of Michigan focused on black women and infertility found that nearly all the women who participated dealt with their infertility in silence. But why?
Dr. Janelle Luk, medical director and co-founder of Generation Next Fertility offered “our job at Generation Next Fertility, is and will always be to advocate for an inclusive environment for all women. We understand that infertility affects everyone, and our team is here to help guide you through this journey. To continue this process, we will discuss some questions and answers surrounding women of color and fertility.”
Are women of color less likely to experience infertility?
Infertility doesn’t discriminate, in fact Infertility impacts 1 in 8, but women of color experience infertility at even higher rate than their white counterparts. Despite these higher rates of infertility, Black women are less likely to access treatment and if they do, may wait twice as long before seeking help.
Why do I feel like only white women are getting IVF treatments?
Often when researching infertility, most women of color don’t see themselves represented in the advertising, media or even waiting rooms. Due to this fact, it can feel like only white women are receiving these treatments.
Are fertility treatments only available to the wealthy?
No, in fact many insurance providers will assist with the cost of fertility treatments, including IVF. The benefits administrator at a patient’s place of employment can confirm whether fertility is covered, and, if so, what portion of care will be covered.
At Generation Next Fertility, our goal is to ensure that every single one of our patients has the best chance possible at building a family and being able to afford our fertility treatment plans. We are more than just protocols; we are advocates of our patients – every single one of them.
