"It's not that easy": Black women, family, society and infertility
Date
2022
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Publisher
University of Delaware
Abstract
Managing infertility can be an isolating and arduous experience physically and emotionally. In the United States, an estimated 12% of women experience infertility. Black women in the United States experience infertility at high rates and are less likely than their white counterparts to seek treatment for the condition (Wellons et al., 2008). At the same time, Black American culture puts a high value on motherhood and family. ☐ The goal of this study is to highlight the infertility experiences of Black women by centering the perspectives of middle-income, Black women. To gain understanding of this phenomena, an intersectional approach was employed using life course theory framework alongside Black feminist theory, engaging 11 participants located throughout the United States, ages 29-42 across two focus groups. ☐ This study found that Black women facing infertility were able to redirect their focus from primarily family building to other goals, participate in other forms of mothering, and engage in various forms of coping, including setting firm boundaries, creating and maintaining a strong persona, and sharing their stories with others. Black women also encountered racism in medical settings and were subject to misinformation regarding fertility. Findings suggest the need for better education on reproductive health for Black women and the larger community, culturally relevant training for medical professionals specializing in infertility, and more mental and emotional health support, as useful tools in helping Black women navigate infertility.
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Keywords
Black family, Black women, Family, Infertility