Booker, Blunt Rochester Recognize October as World Menopause Awareness Month

WASHINGTON, D.C.-U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ) and Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-DE) introduced a resolution recognizing October 2026 as World Menopause Awareness Month. The resolution recognizes the widespread impact of menopause. It also raises awareness of the need for more reliable resources for women facing menopause symptoms and additional training for health care workers on menopause.

"Our health care system has failed women struggling with menopausal symptoms that disrupt their livelihoods, and this unfortunate reality disproportionately affects Black and Hispanic women," said Senator Booker. "This resolution is a reminder that we must do more to support women navigating menopause and provide them with the resources they need. Menopause should not be a barrier to the quality of life every woman deserves."

"Generations of women have faced the transition to menopause, yet for too long this experience has been overlooked, under-researched, and treated as taboo," said Senator Blunt Rochester. "It's far past time we ensure women have the care and support they need to feel their best in all phases of life. I'm proud to introduce the World Menopause Awareness Month Resolution to elevate the challenges of menopause and encourage further investments into research that will help women meet this transition with confidence."

Women in the workforce are burdened by severe menopausal symptoms that can last an average of 7 to 9 years or longer. As many as 40 percent of menopausal women say their symptoms interfered with their work performance or productivity weekly, and nearly 1 in 5 have left or considered leaving their jobs because of menopause. Menopause may also increase the risk of osteoporosis, heart disease, and stroke, making informed health decisions crucial during this period. Black and Hispanic women are more likely to experience menopause earlier and more intense symptoms, including memory loss, urinary problems, depression, and anxiety.

The full text of the resolution can be found here.