Studies find that black women are more likely to face infertility issues than white women. In many communities, including the black community, there’s a stigma attached to infertility forcing many to suffer in silence. Being a black woman and seeking help will be a battle for numerous reasons. Besides being a taboo topic in the black community, infertility services have long been focused on white women. It’s also very expensive and not covered by most insurance. Oh…and let’s not forget we are three to four times more likely than white women to die of pregnancy-related complications.
How to Be Your Own Advocate
- Do the search – Find a provider you are comfortable with. Don’t be afraid to switch providers if you feel you’re not being listened to.
- Come prepared – Bring a list of questions and comments in advance so you don’t forget anything.
- Bring something you can take notes and document everything – Write a detailed journal with your medical information and symptoms. If you feel you are not being treated fairly, express your dissatisfaction in writing.
- Bring a trusted friend or family member – You don’t need to go through this alone, bring someone who can offer emotional support and back you up if necessary.
- Speak up – Don’t be afraid to speak up if you have questions or need clarification. Detail any symptoms or issues, and avoid downplaying them and how they affect your life. Use keywords like “concerned” “alarmed” or “scared.” Medical professionals are trained to listen out for them so keywords can help to communicate what you’re feeling.
- Ask for documentation – Ask for copies of your medical records so that you can keep a set of your own records, across doctors.
- Get a second opinion. If a provider refuses treatment or test you think is appropriate, ask them to document their refusal including specifics, and get a second opinion.
- Join ConceptionPoint community – Going through this with others in a similar situation may help you during this time.
If you are a Black woman with fertility concerns, you have resources. Consider reaching out to these organizations to help you on your journey to parenthood:
ConceptionPoint
In the journey of infertility, it is important to know that you’re not alone. ConceptionPoint is dedicated to not only providing you with the resources to help you in the next step of your journey but we are also dedicated to ensuring that you are in the right headspace at all times. Visit us at
