When we vote, we exercise our power to shape the systems that directly impact our well-being. For Black women, this power is more important than ever, especially when it comes to well-aging and navigating the menopause transition. We live in a world where healthcare disparities persist, and for many Black women, this can mean a lack of adequate support during one of the most profound shifts in our lives—menopause. The decisions made by policymakers influence the quality of healthcare available, the funding of research studies, and the programs that help us thrive through this transition.

One such vital research effort is the Study of Women’s Health Across the Nation (SWAN). This long-term study has given us a deeper understanding of the menopause transition across diverse racial and ethnic groups, including Black women. The study’s findings reveal not only the physical changes during this period but also how social and economic factors shape our experiences. It highlights how systemic racism, stress, and economic inequalities amplify health disparities for Black women. This is why our vote—our voice—matters so much.

The SWAN Study: Revealing Health Disparities

SWAN’s research has brought important insights into the menopause transition, particularly for Black women, who often enter menopause earlier and experience more severe symptoms than their white counterparts. According to SWAN, Black women are more likely to face hot flashes, night sweats, and longer-lasting symptoms compared to other racial groups. These symptoms can drastically affect quality of life, contributing to sleep disturbances, anxiety, and even depression. This is not simply about biology—these differences are linked to the socioeconomic disparities of health.

The study also shows that Black women are more likely to have higher rates of chronic illnesses such as hypertension, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease during and after menopause. These are illnesses shaped by genetics and the compounded effects of long-term stress, discrimination, and a lack of access to quality healthcare.

Voting for Well-Being

Health policies and resources are distributed based on government priorities—priorities set by those we elect into office. If our leadership doesn’t prioritize health equity, we will continue to see limited funding for research that affects Black women’s health, fewer resources for culturally competent care, and inadequate coverage for essential services, such as menopause care.

Voting isn’t just about choosing leaders; it’s about voting for our well-being, voting for well-aging, and voting for policies that prioritize comprehensive, culturally aware healthcare solutions.

When we vote for candidates who support healthcare reform, maternal health, mental health services, and increased funding for menopause research, we are voting for a future where Black women can navigate menopause with dignity, care, and the support we deserve.

A Call for Cultural Competence in Menopause Care

One of the most important findings of the SWAN study is the urgent need for culturally competent care. Too often, Black women feel dismissed by healthcare providers, or their concerns are minimized. This lack of understanding can lead to untreated symptoms, inadequate care, and a sense of isolation during a time that should be met with compassion and support.

By voting, we can push for policies that require medical professionals to be trained in cultural competence. We can demand the kind of care that not only sees us but understands our unique experiences, whether we’re navigating hot flashes, mental health changes, or chronic conditions during menopause.

Empowering Ourselves Through Action

Voting is an act of empowerment, a declaration that Black women’s health matters. Our menopause experiences matter. The disparities revealed by the SWAN study underscore the urgency for political leadership that understands and acts on these issues. We need leaders who will fight for us to have access to affordable, high-quality healthcare throughout our lives, including during and after the menopause transition.

But we can’t wait for systems to change on their own. It’s up to us to vote in leaders who will advocate for health equity, support research that prioritizes Black women, and ensure that we have the resources and care necessary to live full, healthy lives as we age.

So, let’s show up to the polls ( be sure to vote for aligned local candidates), not just for ourselves, but for every Black woman who deserves the right to age well, to thrive during menopause, and to receive the care and dignity we deserve.

By aligning our votes with our well-being, we can collectively shape a future where Black women are supported, seen, and empowered through every life transition—including menopause.