Menopause is a significant stage in a woman's life, yet it remains an issue shrouded in myths and misinformation. Despite affecting approximately 50% of the population, menopause and perimenopause continue to be taboo subjects, with many women feeling uninformed and left to navigate this transition without adequate support or resources. This lack of awareness and education has contributed to significant disparities in care, particularly for women of color who often experience more severe symptoms.
As the Chair of the Select Committee on Reproductive Health, Assemblymember Bauer-Kahan has been at the forefront of addressing these critical gaps in California's healthcare system. Throughout her time in the legislature, she has pushed the state forward by advocating for meaningful workplace reform, comprehensive insurance coverage for treatments, and increased research funding, ensuring women have access to reliable care throughout this natural life transition.
This year, in 2025, Assemblymember Bauer-Kahan introduced AB 432, which successfully codifies treatment options and coverage for perimenopause and menopause. This landmark legislation also requires doctors whose patient population is more than 25% women to participate in continuing medical education regarding menopause, addressing the concerning lack of provider knowledge in this area. By tackling both the financial barriers to care and the educational gaps among healthcare providers, this bill continues to support women across California through this significant life transition now and in the years ahead. AB 432 is a Women's Legislative Caucus Priority Bill.
In this same legislative session, Assemblymember Bauer-Kahan has expanded her outreach efforts, including hosting a well-attended town hall on menopause that brought together healthcare experts, advocates, and community members to discuss challenges and solutions. This event highlighted the ongoing need for greater awareness and destigmatization of menopause-related health concerns.
For more information on menopause, please visit:
- Office of Women’s Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
- The North American Menopause Society
- National Institute on Aging
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration
If you are interested in learning more about Assemblymember Bauer-Kahan’s efforts on this issue at the state level, you can watch the informational hearings she has held as the Chair of the Select Committee on Reproductive Health.
