In this episode of the Motherhood Kit, Yamel explores the challenges and triumphs of infertility and family planning. The guest, Delaine - a Tampa native - shares her experiences and insights as a wife and mother of two, working for an organization called Progny, which increases access to reproductive healthcare. Delaine opens up about her difficult journey with fertility treatment, especially in light of cultural and familial expectations (that often prevent Black and Latina women from seeking fertility treatment). This heart-to-heart conversation unpacks some of the key ways to navigate the journey of fertility treatment.
As Director of Business Development at Progyny, Delaine Williams works as a Consultant and partners directly with companies to enhance their current fertility health care product offerings for employees within their organizations. You can follow her on Instagram to learn more about her own fertility journey.
Keep in touch and in the loop with Yamel on Instagram,TikTok & YouTube.
Black and brown women are more likely to experience infertility than their white counterparts, yet significantly less likely to seek out care. How can you maneuver through cultural expectations, financial obstacles, and limited access to healthcare? How did Delaine cope with the societal pressures - that can lead to feelings of shame and isolation - and explore ways to create a more inclusive and supportive environment?
Infertility and Access to Reproductive Healthcare
Delaine's personal journey with infertility highlights the challenges Black women face in seeking reproductive healthcare. Despite her suspicions of fertility issues, it took a year to get a formal diagnosis, and even then, her husband was diagnosed before she was. Delaine encourages couples to get tested for fertility issues, and not assume the problem is with the woman.
Overcoming Infertility
Delaine's journey to becoming a mother was difficult, but with the help of fertility treatments, she and her husband were able to become parents. She encourages others to seek support when they start to sense trouble – getting help early can be the key to smoother fertility treatment – and not to be afraid to share their journey.
Sharing Infertility Journey
Infertility is an isolating experience and can be challenging to navigate alone. Delaine shares that she only talked about her infertility journey with her mother and a few close friends to avoid unsolicited opinions. She advises couples who suspect they may be experiencing infertility to not wait to ask their doctor about it, as there are tests that can be done early on to identify any underlying causes. She suggests, women should look into the medical plan offered by their employer
Keep in touch and in the loop with Yamel on Instagram, TikTok and YouTube.
