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Kristen Cloutier
Representative | Lewiston, ME

Expanding Education on Perimenopause and Menopause

Idea Category: 2025 Ideas Challenge, Improving Quality of Life

2025 Ideas Challenge Entry

Menopause is a universal experience for all who menstruate, yet education surrounding this critical health transition remains severely limited. The reality of this transition period however, is that there can be serious health consequences. It is not widely known that when estrogen levels decrease, there is an increased risk for heart disease, cognitive changes and osteoporosis. This knowledge gap has left generations without the information they need to navigate this significant life change effectively and with confidence.

LD 1079, An Act to Provide Comprehensive Perimenopause and Menopause Education, directs the Maine Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) to partner with healthcare providers, including obstetricians, gynecologists, primary care physicians, community-based health programs, and hospitals to develop comprehensive educational materials about perimenopause and menopause. These resources will address symptoms, physical and emotional changes, treatment options and long-term health considerations associated with these transitions.

Impact or how it will be measured:

Impact will be measured by collecting data on:

Number of providers and organizations partnering with DHHS.
Quantity and type of materials distributed statewide.
Geographic coverage across regions.
Pre- and post-implementation patient surveys assessing knowledge, confidence, and discussions with providers.
Provider surveys on the usefulness of materials and confidence in discussing the topic.
Engagement metrics for any DHHS-led social media campaigns.
Annual impact reports to the Health & Human Services Committee.