Experiencing perimenopause and menopause has been a personal battle for me—filled with debilitating symptoms, misinformed professionals, and the constant stress of affording necessary treatment.

Each month, I face costs that would be prohibitive for many women, making it difficult to afford the hormone replacement therapy (HRT) I rely on to function and live with dignity.

My story is not unique—and the stakes are high.

I have lost three beloved aunts to heart attacks and strokes. Like many women of their generation, they may have been impacted by fear-driven medical policies that discouraged the use of hormone therapy, leaving them without support during critical hormonal transitions.

This Is Not a Niche Issue

Perimenopause and menopause are not niche issues—they are inevitable stages of life that affect approximately half the population.

In Ontario:
- Women make up over 50% of the population  
- Nearly 60% of women are over age 35, meaning they are in or approaching perimenopause and menopause  

And yet, women are still paying out of pocket for the very treatments that allow them to function, work, and live well.

While doctor visits are covered under OHIP, many of the most effective forms of HRT—such as patches, gels, and newer formulations—are not.

The Health Risks Are Serious

The decline and fluctuation of hormones during perimenopause and menopause are not just uncomfortable—they have serious health consequences.

Women face increased risks of:

- Heart disease — the number one killer of women  
- Osteoporosis and fractures, including hip fractures linked to loss of independence and increased mortality  
- Cognitive decline and dementia, with women making up nearly two-thirds of Alzheimer’s cases  

Hormonal changes also contribute to genitourinary syndrome (GSM), increasing susceptibility to recurrent urinary tract infections. In older women—especially those recovering from events like hip fractures—these infections can progress to sepsis and are associated with increased mortality.

The Treatment Exists — But Access Is Unequal

Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) is a safe, evidence-based treatment that:
- Relieves debilitating symptoms  
- Protects bone health  
- Supports brain and cardiovascular health  
- Improves quality of life  

Extensive research following the debacle of the  early 2000s Women’s Health Initiative has clarified the safety and benefits of HRT when appropriately prescribed.

And yet, access in Ontario depends on:
- Age  
- Income  
- Private insurance  

This is not equitable healthcare.

The Impact on Women’s Lives

When perimenopause and menopause are untreated:
- Women struggle to work and function  
- Some are forced to reduce hours or leave the workforce entirely  
- Single women and heads of households are especially vulnerable  

Too often, women are offered treatments that do not address the underlying hormonal changes.

Women have been expected to endure this silently for far too long.

The Solution

Ontario must recognize perimenopause and menopause care as essential healthcare.

We are calling on the Ontario government to:

- Fully cover hormone therapy for perimenopause and menopause, including estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone where medically indicated  
- Remove restrictive age and income barriers  
- Ensure equitable access to evidence-based treatment for all women  

Add Your Voice

This is about more than symptoms.

This is about health, dignity, and the right to age well.

Women deserve better.

Sign this petition to demand change in Ontario.