ABSTRACT:
Black women experience earlier onset of menopause and more frequent, severe, and longer-lasting symptoms than other populations, yet their experiences remain underrepresented in menopause research. Limited culturally relevant information, inadequate clinical engagement, and structural barriers contribute to unmet needs during menopause transition. The Black Women’s Health Imperative (BWHI) launched a national study to examine Black women’s knowledge, experiences, challenges, and resource needs related to perimenopause and menopause, with the goal of informing public health practice, programming, and policy. BWHI conducted a national, cross-sectional survey of 1,574 Black women aged 30 years and older living in the United States to assess knowledge of perimenopause & postmenopause as well as understand the symptoms during these stages. Participants were recruited through email outreach, social media, & media partners. The survey included items assessing menopause knowledge, symptoms, healthcare interactions, and information-seeking behaviors, as well as an open-ended qualitative question capturing lived experiences. Descriptive statistical analyses were conducted using Stata, and thematic analysis was applied to qualitative responses. Quantitative and qualitative findings were integrated through iterative team review and triangulation. Findings indicate high overall awareness of menopause definitions and treatment options; however, gaps remain in knowledge of early menopause and the full range of symptoms. Although healthcare providers were the most frequently cited source of information, they were rarely viewed as the most useful. Many women reported limited or absent conversations with clinicians about symptoms and treatment. Respondents expressed strong interest in healthcare provider support, online resources, workshops, support groups, and counseling services. Preliminary findings underscore menopause as a critical public health and health equity issue for Black women. Addressing gaps in education, clinical engagement, and culturally responsive care is essential. These results highlight opportunities for data-driven programming, clinician training, and policies that center Black women and promote equitable access to menopause-related information and care.