Aidan Dr. Ann Schutt-Aine is a highly regarded obstetrician-gynecologist in the Gulf Coast region. With extensive experience gained from working with Planned Parenthood affiliates in Pennsylvania and California, she has been a key figure in the medical community since 2008.
As an Assistant Professor in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Baylor College of Medicine, Dr. Ann Schutt-Aine is actively involved in patient care while mentoring residents and medical students. Her dedication to advancing medical education led her to establish Texas’ first Ryan Residency Program in Abortion and Family Planning. A Harvard Medical School graduate, she completed her residency at Magee-Womens Hospital in Pittsburgh and is an esteemed member of several leading medical associations.
In this exclusive interview, Dr. Schutt-Aine reflects on her career, values, and the impact of her work in women’s healthcare.
Who or what inspired you to pursue a career in your chosen field?
I chose OB/GYN because it combines surgical procedures—which I love—with the opportunity to build long-term relationships with patients. From annual exams to pregnancy monitoring and even performing surgeries later in life, the specialty allows for a meaningful connection with patients. My focus on abortion care stems from the profound impact it has on a person’s life in such a short time. Patients seek abortion care because they cannot continue a pregnancy at that moment, regardless of whether they wish to or not. Being able to change the course of someone’s life through a brief, 5–10 minute procedure is truly an honor.
Can you share a defining moment that shaped your career?
Rather than one defining moment, my career has been shaped by countless small yet powerful experiences. Many patients, after receiving abortion care, have expressed gratitude not just for the procedure itself but for the compassion with which it was provided. It’s heartbreaking that many expect judgment or hostility from abortion providers and yet still undergo the procedure because they need the care. These moments reinforced the importance of delivering medical care with empathy, ensuring that every patient feels valued and deserving of kindness, regardless of the treatment they seek.
How would you describe your personal and professional values?
I strongly believe in equity—everyone deserves access to high-quality medical care, regardless of their financial or social circumstances. My career has consistently centered on serving underserved communities. I began at a Federally Qualified Health Center and have spent the past 16 years at Houston’s largest safety-net health system, Harris Health System (formerly Harris County Hospital District). I have always prioritized providing care to those often overlooked, whether due to the type of medical services they need or their financial situation.
What advice would you give your younger self?
Trust the process more. Progress isn’t always visible, but meaningful change often happens in the background. Stay consistent, embrace challenges as opportunities for growth, and never shy away from experiences that push you beyond your comfort zone. Prioritize relationships and surround yourself with people who inspire and challenge you. Most importantly, be kind to yourself—both success and failure are temporary, but the lessons you take from them will stay with you.
