WHEREAS, perimenopause is the stage preceding menopause, during which the ovaries gradually produce less estrogen and progesterone; and

 

WHEREAS, perimenopause is a natural stage of aging that can bring significant physical, emotional, and hormonal changes for women; and

 

WHEREAS, symptoms of perimenopause vary widely and may affect sleep, mood, physical health, and quality of life, while gaps in awareness and education among women and health care professionals may limit understanding of this transition; and

 

WHEREAS, greater awareness and access to accurate information and appropriate medical care can help women better understand and manage perimenopause symptoms and make informed decisions about their health; and

 

WHEREAS, raising awareness among women, healthcare professionals, policymakers, and the public can help reduce stigma, improve education, and ensure that women receive the support they need during this important stage of life;

 

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Abigail D. Spanberger, Governor, do hereby recognize October 2026 as PERIMENOPAUSE AWARENESS MONTH in the COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA, and I call this observance to the attention of all our citizens.