Bill > S1320

This bill requires the Secretaries of Defense and Veterans Affairs to comprehensively evaluate research related to menopause, perimenopause, and mid-life women's health for servicewomen and veterans. The bill defines key terms such as menopause (the stage when a woman permanently stops menstruating), perimenopause (the transitional period with fluctuating hormone levels), and mid-life (a stage spanning approximately ages 35-65). The evaluation will examine completed and ongoing research, identify knowledge gaps, and explore critical areas including treatments for menopause-related symptoms, the impact of military service on menopausal experiences, and the effects of combat exposure on symptoms. Within 180 days of enactment, both Secretaries must submit reports to Congress detailing their findings, recommendations for improving professional training resources for healthcare providers, and a strategic plan to address research gaps. The bill emphasizes minimizing duplicate efforts and supplementing existing research initiatives, with a congressional recommendation that both departments conduct additional research on menopause and mid-life health for women in uniformed services. Notably, the bill replaces references to "Armed Forces" with "uniformed services" throughout the text, suggesting a broader scope of investigation.