Exploring the racial gradient in reproductive health: an examination of challenges to sexual health care faced by black female college students

OBJECTIVES: This study identifies and analyzes barriers to sexual and gynecological health care Black women face at a Historically Black College or University (HBCU) and a Predominantly White Institution (PWI) in southeastern America. DESIGN: Participants identified as Black women who were sexually active, age 18-25, and undergraduate students. The research team conducted in-depth interviews across two campuses via Zoom. Interviews were coded using inductive thematic analysis. RESULTS: We derived six specific themes that summarize Black female college students' barriers to care: Patient-provider Interactions, Economic Determinants of Health, Social Support, Access to Care, Lack of Primary Care, and No Challenges. CONCLUSION: Reproductive and sexual health disparities can be mitigated with attention to diversity in medical school, affordable care, and teaching young women to prioritize their care for long-term reproductive health.