Black women are navigating menopause with less support, more symptoms, and higher rates of medical dismissal — and now we finally have the data to prove it. The Black Women’s Health Imperative has released the largest U.S. survey ever conducted on Black women’s menopause experiences, uncovering major gaps in care, information, and equity. Here’s what the findings reveal — and why this research matters for every woman in midlife.

For over 20 years, low-dose vaginal estrogen has carried a frightening FDA black box warning—despite no evidence of the risks it lists. Experts now say this outdated label is keeping women from a safe, effective treatment for painful and life-altering menopause symptoms.