The impact of sociocultural and economic factors in seeking fertility services

Abstract

Utilization of medical resources by different racial and ethnic groups is dependent on many factors. Lack of appropriate information, racial discrimination, and lack of referrals from primary care physicians may impact the decision to seek fertility care. However, socioeconomic, behavioral, and social influences can also significantly impact decisions regarding medical care at both the individual and the greater racial/ethnic group level. This chapter summarizes the contributions of sociocultural and economic factors that can impact a women's desire to seek fertility care.