Māori perspectives on assisted reproduction and fertility treatment:

A review of the literature

Abstract

International researchers have documented the increasing availability and acceptability of assisted reproductive technologies (ARTs) across the Global North, yet barriers to access remain. While such barriers are often framed in terms of affordability, international studies show that culture and ethnicity can significantly impact access and outcomes. There is minimal research in Aotearoa New Zealand exploring barriers to equitable fertility treatment among Indigenous and ethnic minority groups. In this article, we review available literature related to assisted reproduction and fertility treatment to examine barriers to fertility care access for Māori individuals and couples. The article intentionally references studies undertaken by Māori researchers. The aim of the review is twofold. First, to recommend increased efforts by healthcare professionals and fertility clinics to draw on mātauranga Māori to produce accessible information for Māori individuals and couples to make informed decisions around fertility treatment options. Second, to call for further empirical research to account for their experiences.