HealthSeptember 15, 2026

Why Congress Is Talking About Menopause Now

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② Start Lesson

Key Vocabulary

menopause/ˈmen.əˌpɔːz/

The time when a woman stops having periods and can no longer become pregnant.

"Many women have symptoms during menopause."

hormone/ˈhɔːr.moʊn/

A chemical made in the body that controls how organs and cells work.

"Hormone changes can cause hot flashes."

research/rɪˈsɜːrtʃ/

Careful study to learn new facts or test ideas.

"More research can help doctors treat symptoms."

Listening

Why Congress Is Talking About Menopause Now

Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand held Congress' first hearing on menopause on September 16, 2026. The Senate Special Committee on Aging met in room SH-216 in Washington, D.C.

The hearing brought experts to talk about common symptoms and gaps in care. Gillibrand said she wants more federal research and better training for doctors so women get help. In 2025, the FDA removed broad 'black box' warnings from some hormone therapy products. The senator has also backed a bill that would give federal agencies money for menopause research, including $25,000,000 for each of several years. Many people who have hot flashes, pain, or mood changes could benefit.

104 words

Quiz

1. Who held the congressional hearing?

2. When was the Senate Committee hearing scheduled?

3. What change did the FDA make about hormone therapy labels?

Reading Practice

Read the article from the Listening section aloud. Your AI teacher will give you pronunciation feedback.

Discussion

Do you know anyone who has talked about menopause openly? What did they say?

Have you ever had sleep or mood changes that surprised you? What happened?

What do you think doctors should learn about mid-life health?