Asian Americans and infertility: genetic susceptibilities, sociocultural stigma, and access to careEssential Points
Michelle H. Vu, M.D.,
Anh-Tho Antoinette Nguyen, B.A.,
Snigdha Alur-Gupta, M.D., M.S.C.E.
Affiliations
Michelle H. Vu, M.D.
Reprint requests: Michelle H. Vu, M.D., Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Rochester Medical Center, 601 Elmwood Avenue, Box 668, Rochester, New York 14642.; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, New York
Anh-Tho Antoinette Nguyen, B.A.
Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, New York
Snigdha Alur-Gupta, M.D., M.S.C.E.
Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, New York
Infertility affects over 6 million people in the United States and has been shown to disproportionally affect minority patient populations. Asian American infertility is a particularly understudied area of research. This mini review article explores the current state of published research focusing on Asian American infertility trends as well as their barriers to fertility care. A small number of published studies have found that Asian American patients have decreased success with fertility treatments, including lower rates of pregnancy and live birth. These trends may be attributed to a combination of genetic, environmental, and cultural factors, which will be discussed here in further detail. It is crucial to continue building on Asian American fertility research to provide this diverse patient population with comprehensive, compassionate, and culturally sensitive care.
