Black women in the U.S. are entering menopause earlier, enduring more severe symptoms, and receiving less care than their white counterparts, according to a growing body of research. The disparities are not just biological—they’re systemic.
The median age of natural menopause is 52.17 for Black women, nearly nine months earlier than for white women. But the difference goes beyond timing. Black women experience vasomotor symptoms like hot flashes and night sweats for an average of 10.1 years—compared to 6.5 years for white women. They are also twice as likely to undergo surgical menopause and 50% less likely to use hormone therapy beforehand.
Despite the intensity of symptoms, many Black women don’t recognize them as signs of perimenopause. That’s partly because most healthcare providers aren’t trained to recognize them either. Only 31% of OB/GYN residency programs in the U.S. offer a menopause curriculum—and most are elective.
The lack of culturally competent care compounds the problem. Black women are more likely to report depression, worse sleep, and more intense symptoms, yet their experiences are often undocumented in medical records. This leads to fewer referrals and prescriptions, even in systems designed to be equitable.
Researchers point to the “weathering hypothesis”—the idea that chronic stress from racism accelerates health decline—as a key factor. Without intervention, these disparities could lead to higher risks of cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis, and mental health disorders.
“Black Women Face Earlier Menopause Onset and Inadequate Care” (June 29, 2025)
