Menopause Is Universal, But Not Equitable.
For many women, perimenopause can be harrowing. But research shows that Black women and women from other ethnicities often face a different and more severe experience.
Studies reveal that Black women may begin experiencing perimenopausal symptoms as early as age 35, and on average, 8.5 months earlier than white women. What’s even more troubling is that the whyremains largely unclear—because the research simply hasn’t been done.
As neuroscientist Dr. Lisa Mosconi, Director of the Women’s Brain Initiative at Weill Cornell Medicine, explains:
“It’s harder on Black and Hispanic women… They may experience more severe symptoms of menopause, which is something we should really talk about because there’s hardly any research done on this, and it’s completely unfair.”
And she’s right. Every woman—regardless of race or ethnicity—deserves to thrive in midlife. But thriving requires understanding the nuances. Menopause is not a one-size-fits-all journey. Each woman is unique, and so too should be her care, her treatment, and her wellness solutions.
This is why representation in research matters. Black women must be included, studied, and acknowledged—not ignored. By highlighting the disparities, by speaking up, and by participating in research, we can help close the gaps and create holistic, equitable solutions for all women.
So how can Black women help themselves?
By taking part in research, surveys and initiatives that aim to change policy and improve their menopause experience.
Menopause Advocate, Author and Co-Founder of Shhh. Menopause Wellness Dr (h.c) Marva Williams has launched the Menopause and Race Survey—a groundbreaking project designed to change outcomes for Black and Global Majority women at government level.
Complete the survey here: http://bit.ly/intl-menopause-race-survey
The more women participate, the greater the impact. Every voice matters. Every response counts.
The time to talk about this is now.
Have you experienced perimenopause symptoms? What has your journey been like? Let’s open up the conversation in the 🗣️comments⬇️
♻️Share Menopause Talk to your network. Contribute to the conversation and breaking the stigma on menopause in Black communities.
