Addressing the Menopause Health Needs of Military Service Members

Abstract

The menopause transition represents a significant life phase for people assigned female at birth marked by various physical and psychological changes. For military service members and veterans, this transition can be even more complex because of unique factors related to military service. A tradition of excluding women from service before reaching the age of the menopause transition has left the Military Health System unprepared to address the specific health needs of this population. The lack of attention to menopause needs of military service members is evidenced by the absence of menopause-related research in the active-duty population and a dearth of menopause-specific research in the veteran population. White House Executive Order 14120 on Advancing Women's Health Research and Innovation has highlighted the urgent need for focused research and improved health care delivery tailored to the menopause needs of military individuals and veterans. By addressing these gaps, we can better support the health and well-being of military service members in the menopause transition, ultimately improving operational readiness and retention. Because military service members and veterans often rely on the private sector for health care, it is incumbent on all health care professionals and systems to consider their unique health care needs related to midlife and menopause.