April marks National Minority Health Month, a time to recognize and address the healthcare disparities that impact underserved communities. At Viva Eve, we are committed to delivering compassionate, personalized care to the diverse women of NYC—not just as our patients, but as part of our own Provider Team.
Why does representation matter in Ob/Gyn care?
Research consistently shows that minority women—particularly Black, Hispanic, and Indigenous women—face higher rates and more severe outcomes of gynecological conditions such as fibroids, endometriosis, and cervical cancer compared to white women. Yet, too often, their symptoms are overlooked, their pain is dismissed, and their voices go unheard.
A healthcare team that reflects the communities it serves can help bridge this gap, fostering trust, understanding, and better health outcomes. Let’s explore why diversity in Ob/Gyn care isn’t just important—it’s essential.
1. The Dismissal of Pain and Symptoms
Many women of color have reported feeling unheard when they express concerns about their health. Studies show that Black women, in particular, are more likely to have their pain underestimated and undertreated in medical settings.
“A lot of our population, the people are broken,” says Stephanie Woodley, an Ob/Gyn patient. “They are not seeing medical providers. They are not taking care of themselves or anything like that. So we can speak from a place of experience.”
When providers share cultural backgrounds or have training in culturally competent care, they are more likely to validate symptoms, take concerns seriously, and offer appropriate treatment options.
2. Delayed Diagnoses and Barriers to Specialized Care
Conditions like fibroids and endometriosis are often misdiagnosed or diagnosed late in minority women, leading to more severe outcomes. “There is a lack of adequate healthcare and screenings that are happening to minority women in relation to fibroids,” says Viva Eve Fibroid Navigator, Alexa Grigley, NP.
Socioeconomic barriers, limited access to specialists, and a history of medical mistrust all contribute to these delays. “Medical care for a woman of color is just not great,” adds Selena Williams, another Viva Eve Fibroid Fighter. “We’re not taken seriously. We’re just fed to the dogs.”
Having diverse, knowledgeable providers who advocate for early screening, accessible treatment options, and patient education can make all the difference in a woman’s health journey. “If you have been dismissed at other practices, please reach out to us,” adds Grigley. “With the support of a medical team that listens, you are in control of what you choose to do.”
3. Culturally Competent Pregnancy and Postpartum Care
Black women in the U.S. are three times more likely to die from pregnancy-related complications than white women. The causes are complex, but implicit bias in healthcare plays a significant role. Representation in Ob/Gyn care ensures that pregnant women of color receive individualized attention, early intervention for complications, and a provider who understands the unique challenges they face.
Creating a More Equitable Future in Women’s Health
At Viva Eve, we believe that every woman deserves to be heard, understood, and cared for with dignity. By building a diverse team of providers and prioritizing culturally competent care, we are working toward a future where all women—regardless of race or background—receive the high-quality, personalized care they deserve.
- Our team represents over 31 different cultural backgrounds.
- We speak more than 11 languages, ensuring patients can communicate comfortably in their preferred language.
- We live up to our commitment, whether it’s as broad as ensuring our office reflects the diversity of our community, or as specific as addressing key health disparities—such as the fact that Black women are three times more likely to develop fibroids and require a tailored approach to care.
At Viva Eve, diversity isn’t just a value—it’s part of how we provide exceptional, personalized healthcare every day. If you’ve ever felt dismissed or unheard in your healthcare journey, know that there are providers who will listen. Your health matters, your pain is real, and your voice deserve
