For members of the AAPI community seeking fertility care, it’s important to know you’re not alone. We understand the unique challenges you may be facing, from cultural stigmas to barriers to care, and we’re here to support you every step of the way.
Empowerment through knowledge and support
In the US, the AAPI community is made up of 16 million people, but there’s a significant lack of AAPI representation when it comes to fertility discussions. This makes it challenging for individuals to access the necessary knowledge and support for family-building, compounded by cultural stigmas. Considering the higher prevalence of infertility among AAPI members compared to their White counterparts, it’s crucial to start learning about fertility early on. Studies show that AAPI patients can be more likely to:
Experience greater difficulty conceiving
Asian individuals may face increased challenges in conception due to predispositions to certain conditions. Asian American women are nearly 3X more likely to have endometriosis compared to White women, and certain Asian ethnic groups are more prone to developing Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS)—both of which can hinder fertility. Similarly, Asian men may have higher likelihoods of erectile dysfunction, low libido, or abnormal semen parameters compared to White men.Â
Wait longer to seek fertility treatment
Cultural attitudes and stigmas towards infertility and fertility treatment vary among different ethnic groups, which can make the decision to undergo fertility treatment an isolating and emotionally challenging experience. This is particularly common for members of the AAPI community, in which fertility and family are often strongly tied to traditional beliefs—putting undue social pressure on those who must pursue a different family-building path. Access to healthcare services, whether financial or geographical, can further delay an individual’s decision or ability to seek fertility treatment.Â
Have decreased treatment success rates
Since age is one of the most important factors when it comes to fertility success, waiting longer to seek help can make fertility treatment less effective. Combining age and genetic predispositions, AAPI women may experience additional factors that can make it more difficult to conceive through intrauterine insemination (IUI) or in vitro fertilization (IVF), including lower ovarian reserve, poor egg quality, and lower response to ovarian stimulation hormones. Â
At WIN, we’re committed to providing the care and support you need to build your family. We’ll connect you with informative resources and fertility experts who truly understand your concerns and needs. Together, we’ll navigate this journey and help you achieve your dream of starting a family.
Supporting Our AAPI Community: Navigating Fertility Challenges with Empathy and Understanding
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