Fit in Community but Fat in Clinics: Pacific Peoples, Infertility and Assisted Reproductive Technologies
Tracks
Virtual / Online
Monday, October 30, 2023 |
11:25 AM - 11:45 AM |
Overview
Dr. Edmond Fehoko, University of Otago
Speaker
Dr Edmond Fehoko
Senior Lecturer
University Of Otago
Fit in Community but Fat in Clinics: Pacific peoples, infertility and assisted reproductive technologies.
Abstract
The availability and uptake of assisted reproductive technologies are increasing in most places across the globe. Yet, delays and disparities exist for many Indigenous and minority ethnic groups regarding outcomes and access to fertility treatment and reproductive services. In Aotearoa | NZ, the literature shows that Māori and Pacific people who experience fertility issues are generally less likely than Pākehā to seek fertility clinic support. This paper examines why this may be the case by presenting talanoa data from eight Pacific cisgender women living in Aotearoa | NZ. The findings are part of a larger qualitative study conducted with participants seeking access to assisted reproduction for family building. While assisted reproductive technologies promise to transform years of “infertility challenges” into “fertility blessings” for our participants, they voiced concern about weight-based restrictions and a lack of awareness and information tailored for Pacific peoples, families, and communities in the fertility clinic context. To address these issues, several strategies are proposed to increase efforts in reproducing and disseminating awareness- raising information about fertility treatment that is culturally accessible, appropriate, and equitable.
Biography
Dr Edmond Fehoko is a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Human Nutrition with a background in criminology, sociology, cultural studies, mental health and addiction, reproductive health and public health.
Dr Fehoko has extensive expertise in developing, designing and evaluating Pacific and indigenous interventions to promote health and positive well-being, qualitative and Pacific research methods and methodologies.