Racism in Obstetrics and Gynecology

Racism is defined as behavior, attitudes, and actions that reflect the belief that racial differences result in the inherent superiority of one race over another, as well as the systemic oppression of one racial group for the social, economic, and political advantage of another (1). Racism, not race, drives health inequities and leads to adverse health outcomes.

Race is a social category, not a biological or genetic condition, that elevates risk for certain diagnoses and health disparities. Racism has been and continues to be systemically embedded into our society and the practice of medicine (2,3). Racial health inequities are the result of the upstream and downstream impacts of systemic racism on the lives, health, and well-being of Black, Indigenous, Hispanic/Latino, Asian, Native Hawaiian, Pacific Islander, and other historically marginalized populations(1,2). Furthermore, intersections with other identities—such as gender, sexuality, ability, religion, and others—can further influence and multiply the effects of racism on individuals and communities (4).

Racial and ethnic inequities in obstetrics and gynecology cannot be reversed without addressing all aspects of racism and racial bias, including the sociopolitical forces that perpetuate them (2). The actualization of an equitable health care system that serves all people can only occur through acknowledgement of the historical context from which modern health inequities grew and a meaningful commitment to transforming health care practices that continue to perpetuate inequities and reproductive injustice (2,4).

We have an obligation to work to overhaul unjust systems that perpetuate unacceptable racial inequities in health outcomes. As the premier organization for obstetrician–gynecologists, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists is committed to eliminating racism and racial inequities that lead to disparate health outcomes through deep reflection, listening, accountability, collaboration, and direct action.

References

1. Merriam-Webster. Racism. Accessed November 12, 2025. https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/racism
2. Braveman PA, Arkin E, Proctor D, Kauh T, Holm N. Systemic and structural racism: definitions, examples, health damages, and approaches to dismantling. Health Aff (Millwood) 2022;41:171–8. doi: 10.1377/hlthaff.2021.01394
3. Yearby R, Clark B, Figueroa JF. Structural racism in historical and modern US health care policy. Health Aff (Millwood) 2022;41:187–94. doi: 10.1377/hlthaff.2021.01466
4. Macias-Konstantopoulos WL, Collins KA, Diaz R, Duber HC, Edwards CD, Hsu AP, et al. Race, healthcare, and health disparities: a critical review and recommendations for advancing health equity. West J Emerg Med 2023;24:906–18. doi: 10.5811/westjem.58408

Approved by the Board of Directors February 2022
Amended and Reaffirmed November 2025