Conversations about menopause are often taboo, but changing attitudes are encouraging more open dialogue and drawing attention from state lawmakers.

Lawmakers in Illinois, Louisiana, Oregon and Washington are approving funding to promote hormone replacement therapy as a treatment for hot flashes, night sweats and mood changes. Indiana law does not require insurance providers to pay for menopause treatments, meaning many women still pay out of pocket.

Dr. Taylor Hahn, a board-certified OB-GYN and menopause practitioner who founded Via Women's Health Collective, said state legislators do not fully understand the impact of those policy decisions.

“We're legislating on some aspects of women's health," Hahn said, "but in other parts, like menopause, it's sort of like an afterthought, especially when it comes to laws that are being passed, and what could be highlighted as preventive health for women.”

The Indiana Department of Health is required to support public awareness programs about menopause, osteoporosis and mental health. Four states have already passed legislation mandating insurance coverage for menopause treatments.

Nationwide, there are 50 proposed bills in 24 states that would improve menopause care, coverage and treatment.

Inconsistent sleep patterns that accompany menopause often lead to fatigue, brain fog and memory problems. The effects can be so severe that work attendance and performance suffer.

Hahn said a lack of knowledge about menopause is one reason women are not getting the support they need. She said women should share their experiences with their peers.

Hahn said more openness could help change “the mindset of employers” so they recognize when an employee is struggling.

“Oh gosh, she's really going through something, and I didn't even know, because maybe she was afraid to discuss it, afraid to even bring it up,” Hahn said.

Hahn said having those conversations is a good starting point for implementing workplace policies that accommodate menopause.

Source: Public News Service