Virginia Unanimously Passes Bill to Educate on Menstrual Health Disorders

Feb 27

In a unanimous vote, Virginia lawmakers have passed House Bill 1918, a groundbreaking measure aimed at increasing awareness and education about menstrual health disorders, such as endometriosis and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

Introduced by Delegate Destiny LeVere Bolling (D-Henrico) and co-sponsored by Delegate Cia Price (D-Newport News), the bill will establish a Women's Menstrual Health Program under the Virginia Department of Health (VDH). This program will train hospital staff and healthcare providers to better recognize and support patients with menstrual disorders.

“There are so many women that are late diagnosed and could have been saved years and years of pain and agony if only they had known sooner,” said Del. Price during a Health subcommittee meeting on Jan. 21.

What Are Menstrual Disorders?

Menstrual disorders like endometriosis and PCOS are common yet often misunderstood conditions. According to the World Health Organization (WHO):

Endometriosis affects about 10% of women globally, often leading to severe pain, infertility, and emotional distress. Although it commonly affects the menstrual cycle, endometriosis is a full-body disease that can impact organs beyond the reproductive system, including the bladder, bowel, and even lungs in rare cases.
PCOS impacts 6–13% of women, with over 50% remaining undiagnosed (Birth in Color RVA).

These conditions can severely affect quality of life, yet many patients face years of misdiagnosis or dismissal.

What the Bill Does

Initially, HB1918 proposed wide-reaching provisions, including required screenings, treatment, follow-up care, and data collection. However, those were later scaled back due to cost concerns.

Instead, the VDH will now focus on developing and providing online educational materials for healthcare providers and the public. These materials will follow guidelines from recognized bodies such as the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG).

Despite the absence of additional funding, VDH stated it could absorb the costs by using existing staff and publishing materials online.

“The biggest impact this program will have is hopefully educating women that they don't have to continue to suffer,” said Dr. Amy Nelson, Virginia legislative representative for ACOG.

Why It Matters

This legislation marks an important step in normalizing conversations about menstrual health and bridging the gap in provider education. Organizations like Birth In Color RVA, a nonprofit focused on maternal health equity, played a key role in advocating for the bill.

“I believe that it will bring more awareness to these issues… and it will have providers getting educated about it,” said Kenda Sutton-El, Executive Director of Birth In Color RVA.

With bipartisan support and zero opposition, HB1918 signals a growing recognition in Virginia’s General Assembly that women’s health is a public health priority.

Sources: