States Take Action for Perimenopause Awareness
The National Menopause Foundation (NMF) and Perry have announced an exciting development in women's health awareness as twelve states have proclaimed September as Perimenopause Awareness Month. This initiative aims to increase the visibility and understanding of perimenopause, a critical stage of life that occurs years before menopause, and affects many women across the nation.
Understanding Perimenopause
Perimenopause is a transitional phase that generally begins 7-10 years prior to menopause. During this time, women may experience a variety of symptoms ranging from irregular periods to emotional fluctuations. Despite its significant impact on women's lives, awareness of perimenopause remains low. The U.S. sees around 1.3 million women entering menopause annually, yet many remain uninformed about the preceding phase. The collaboration between NMF and Perry marks a pivotal step in addressing this knowledge gap.
Governor Proclamations Highlighting Awareness
States including Colorado, Georgia, Illinois, Maryland, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oregon, South Carolina, South Dakota, Vermont, and West Virginia have made official proclamations to declare September as Perimenopause Awareness Month. This substantial support emphasizes the urgent need for better education and healthcare access related to perimenopause, empowering women to seek care and advocate for their health.
The Voices Behind the Movement
Claire Gill, the founder and president of NMF, expressed her gratitude for the governors who have acknowledged the importance of perimenopause awareness. She stated, "The changes that happen to women during this natural phase of life are not well discussed in healthcare settings. We appreciate the policy leaders who have prioritized educating women and creating support systems for those in midlife."
Laura Okafor Crain, founder and CEO of Perry, added that symptoms can begin as early as age 35. This early onset often catches many women off-guard, making awareness even more essential. She highlighted their aim to secure recognition for Perimenopause Awareness Month across all fifty states in the coming year.
Educational Initiatives and Resources
Throughout September, the NMF and Perry are hosting numerous educational programs and resources focusing on perimenopause. These initiatives aim to connect women with leading clinical experts and influencers, providing both virtual and live events. This outreach is designed to equip women with knowledge about their health and the resources available to them.
Continuous Support for Women
Access to accurate information and support is vital during perimenopause, and the NMF and Perry are dedicated to ensuring that women do not have to navigate this journey alone. By providing education, resources, and community engagement, they strive to create a supportive environment for women experiencing various symptoms of perimenopause.
About the National Menopause Foundation
The National Menopause Foundation (NMF), established in 2019, is committed to empowering women with the tools and resources to navigate menopause and its stages. NMF seeks to be a trusted source for awareness, education, and community related to menopause, providing invaluable support to women during this significant life transition.
About Perry
Perry is a digital wellness platform that focuses on redefining the care provided during the perimenopause phase. Founded by Laura Okafor, Perry offers women a holistic approach to navigating this life stage, providing evidence-based education, expert-led resources, and peer support.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Perimenopause?
Perimenopause is the transitional stage before menopause, often starting 7-10 years prior to the cessation of menstrual cycles.
Why is September declared as Perimenopause Awareness Month?
September is recognized to heighten awareness and understanding of perimenopause, ensuring women have access to information and care.
Which states have declared this awareness month?
States include Colorado, Illinois, and West Virginia among others, promoting education on perimenopause.
How can women access resources during this month?
The NMF and Perry are hosting educational programs and resources available online and live throughout September.
What organizations are leading these efforts?
The National Menopause Foundation and Perry are spearheading these initiatives to improve awareness and support for women experiencing perimenopause.
