What Keeps Women of Color from Infertility Treatment?

According to the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), approximately 12 percent of women ages 15-44 in the U.S. are not able to have children But for black women, infertility is a problem that is increasing according to Dr. David Seifer, Co-Director of Genesis Fertility and Reproductive Medicine Center in Brooklyn, New York.

"In 1995, the percentage of black women who received any service for infertility was 13 percent, compared with 16.3 percent of white women with one or more previous births...in 2002 that number declined to 10 percent of black women compared with 18.8 percent of white women," Seifer wrote for the American Society for Reproductive Medicine.

Black women aren't seeking out infertility services to the same degree as white women; the website www.grio.com suggests economic and cultural reasons may be part of the reason why.

If you or someone you know is a person of color and is interested in fertility support or treatment, the Broken Brown Egg is a great resource. A non-proft organization, the goal of The Broken Brown Egg is to start the dialogue and encourage African Americans to talk about this topic so that those dealing with fertility concerns and reproductive health issues won't feel so alone, through humor, activism, and hope.

The Broken Brown Egg Foundation was developed on the belief that there is a vast misconception and lack of information and awareness in the African-American community regarding infertility, conception, and family health.

It is time to break that silence. The Foundation actively seeks those who are willing to share stories, suggestions, and talents to help shed much needed light on the subject of African American family health and building.

For more information, contact the Broken Brown Egg at:
Email mrstiye@thebrokenbrownegg.org
Phone 312-857-HOPE
Website http://www.thebrokenbrownegg