In a historic move, perry, a leading digital health platform specializing in perimenopause, has partnered with the National Menopause Foundation to designate September as the first-ever Perimenopause Awareness Month. This initiative aims to shine a spotlight on perimenopause, an often-overlooked stage in women’s lives that can begin as early as age 35. All 50 states are encouraged to officially recognize September through state or gubernatorial proclamations.
Perimenopause is the transitional period leading up to menopause, marked by a gradual decrease in reproductive hormones that can cause disruptive symptoms. This phase can span several years before menopause, defined as 12 consecutive months without a period.
Why Now?
The urgency to highlight perimenopause has never been greater. With an estimated 1 billion women expected to experience perimenopause globally by 2025, the need for increased awareness, education, and support is critical. This new initiative aims to address the widespread lack of information and the stigma associated with this transition, which often leaves women struggling in silence.
Laura Okafor, CEO and Founder of perry, emphasized, “Perimenopause Awareness Month and World Perimenopause Day on September 22nd are about empowering women with the knowledge and resources they need to navigate this life stage with confidence. By shifting the narrative and reaching younger women early, we can help them prepare for perimenopause. Our collaboration with experts and organizations aims to provide reliable information, community support, and high-quality care.”
A Collaborative Effort: “We’re in it Together”
In a strong partnership, perry and the National Menopause Foundation have launched perimenopauseawareness.com, a dedicated platform offering a comprehensive calendar of online events, expert resources, and an in-person event.
The campaign, themed “We’re in it Together,” emphasizes the collective support women need during perimenopause. This theme calls for solidarity, highlighting the importance of community during a time when many women face perimenopause alone.
Additionally, perry has teamed up with filmmakers Sadhvi Siddhlai and Sadhvi Anubhuti to release “Balanced: A Perimenopause Docuseries,” an unprecedented documentary that aims to amplify expert voices and share real women’s stories, advancing perimenopause awareness.
Perimenopause Awareness Month Events
Claire Gill, Founder of the National Menopause Foundation, stated, “The events for Perimenopause Awareness Month are designed to build community, address the lack of understanding about perimenopause, and provide essential education and resources for women experiencing this transition.”
The month’s activities include:
- Daily webinars and podcasts with leading experts addressing key topics.
- “Ask the Expert” sessions focusing on symptoms and treatments of perimenopause.
- Online support groups and local meetups, known as ‘Perry Parties.’
- Launch of the perimenopause guides program for accessible and empathetic support.
- Introduction of a new resource base for healthcare providers to enhance perimenopause care.
- A social media campaign using hashtags #MyPeriStory and #InItTogether to boost visibility.
- An in-person event on World Perimenopause Day, September 22nd, 2024, which will be streamed live for those unable to attend.
This groundbreaking initiative aims to foster greater understanding and support for perimenopause, marking a significant step forward in women’s health advocacy.
