Traverse City menopause event highlights increased need for women’s mid-life care, impact on workforce

Event part of Michigan Women’s Commission ‘Menopause: It’s a Movement!’ statewide conversations

TRAVERSE CITY, Mich. — The Michigan Women's Commission (MWC) recently hosted a menopause conversation moderated by Valerie Lego, founder and host of The Pause podcast. These conversations will continue to take place around the state to create a safe space where women can openly share their mid-life health stories and find answers to the questions they have about menopause symptoms and treatments.

"When we create policies and workplace cultures that acknowledge and support women navigating menopause, we’re not only promoting health and dignity — we’re making a smart investment in our workforce and our economy,” said Susan Corbin, director of the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity. “Supporting women at every stage of their careers helps retain experienced talent, boosts productivity and fosters workplaces where everyone can thrive. The return on that investment is healthier employees, stronger businesses and a more resilient economy for all."

Panelists included: Dr. Abigail Ellsworth, naturopathic doctor, Freshwater Wellness; Catherine Veeser, PT, WCS, pelvic health specialist, Mary Free Bed Rehabilitation Hospital; Dr. Julie Riddle, OBGYN, Munson Hospital; Sarah Louisignau, women’s well-care practitioner, founder of The Living Pelvis; and Shawn Ruiz, Certified Nurse Midwife and Certified Menopause Practitioner, Grand Traverse Women’s Clinic.

“For women, who make up about half labor force, understanding their health is instrumental in advocating for accommodations in the work place,” said Valerie Lego. “It’s great to see the Women’s Commission taking the charge to help the women of Michigan take charge of their health.”

“As a naturopathic doctor, I’m grateful to the Women’s Commission for recognizing the value of holistic care and giving naturopathic doctors a platform to share our insights on menopause,” said Dr. Abigail Ellsworth. “Empowering women with diverse natural treatment options is a crucial step towards their health and well-being."

“I’m excited to see menopause finally being talked about more openly,” said Dr. Julia Riddle. “It’s a vital part of women’s health, and these conversations help break the stigma and ensure women get the care and support they deserve.”

In the United States, women make up 51% of the population and roughly 75 million women are in perimenopause, menopause, or post-menopause right now with 6,000 more women reaching menopause each day. A Mayo Clinic study put a price tag on menopause and estimated the costs of worker productivity losses due to menopausal symptoms to be about $1.8 billion per year in the U.S. and related health care costs total over $24 billion.

In 2024, MWC launched a survey to women across the state regarding their experiences with menopause in the workplace. MWC will use the data to release a report making recommendations to employers and policymakers on how to create menopause-supportive workplaces.

"Addressing menopause in the workplace is essential to understanding the full scope of challenges women face across their careers and lives,” said Cheryl Bergman, executive director of the Michigan Women’s Commission. “This work shines a light on an issue too often overlooked, yet one that directly impacts women’s health, economic security, and professional growth. As part of our mission to review the status of women in Michigan, highlight critical issues, and celebrate their contributions, the Menopause Movement is a vital step toward creating policies and workplaces that truly support women at every stage."

On March 12, 2025, MWC hosted a Women’s History Month event with Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, Halle Berry, and Dr. Pauline Maki convening community members, policy makers and health care related individuals to bring awareness to the lack of information and research about menopause jeopardizing women’s health.

This event kick started conversations MWC is conducting around the state to create a safe space for women to share their stories, include local policy makers and health professionals to destigmatize this topic and create policy solutions.

Learn more about the Michigan Women’s Commission at michigan.gov/mwc.

###