Infertility
Poor women (along with lesbians, single women, older women and women with disabilities) have traditionally been excluded from accessing assisted reproductive technologies.[1]
Women with higher income and education do not experience higher rates of infertility. In fact, women in the lowest socioeconomic groups have the highest rates of infertility.[1][2]
Couples and individuals who experience infertility often experience guilt, low self-esteem, depression, disappointment, increased rates of relationship conflict and sexual dysfunction.[1]
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1. Peterson, MM. Assisted reproductive technologies and equity of access issues. Journal of Medical Ethics 2005;31:280-5.
2. Jain, T, Hornstein, MD. Disparities in access to infertility services in a state with mandated insurance coverage. Fertility and Sterility 2005;221-3.
