A Scientific Review on the Missing Conversation in Women’s Health: Understanding Perimenopause, Reducing Stigma, and Advancing Culturally Inclusive Care

Abstract

Perimenopause remains one of the most misunderstood, under-recognized, and stigmatized phases of a woman’s life. Despite affecting half the global
population, awareness among women and even healthcare clinicians remains remarkably low. This paper explores the sociocultural silence around female reproductive health, the multifaceted impact of perimenopause, the rising risk of chronic diseases during midlife, and the urgent need for accessible, culturally grounded education. It concludes by highlighting technology-enabled solutions such as the MeNOW companion app as a path toward empowering women with knowledge, agency, and early preventive care.