Macron's Bold Moves on addressing Menopause, Fertility, and Consent

French President Emmanuel Macron has unveiled a series of progressive initiatives aimed at addressing key issues in women's health, including fertility challenges, the importance of sexual consent, and the often overlooked topic of menopause. In a recent interview with Elle magazine, Macron detailed his comprehensive approach to enhance support for women's health across France.

Fertility and Reproductive Rights

Macron emphasized the need for "free use of the body," highlighting a significant discrepancy between the current fertility rate (1.8) and the desired rate (2.3). To bridge this gap, he announced a multi-faceted plan including:

• Free Fertility Checks: Starting around age 20, these state-reimbursed assessments will provide young people with a comprehensive view of their reproductive health.

• Support for Older Mothers: The government plans to increase the number of centers dedicated to egg preservation, catering to women who wish to delay motherhood.

• Enhanced Access to IVF: Macron's administration aims to significantly reduce the waiting times for in-vitro fertilization treatments, which currently stand at 16-24 months.

Parenthood and Equality

The President also proposed measures to promote equality and shared responsibilities in parenting:

• Birth Leave: An innovative approach offering three months of leave for both mothers and fathers within the child’s first year, complementing existing paternity and maternity leaves.

• Visiting Duty for Fathers: A debate will be opened about mandating fathers in single-parent families to remain actively involved in their children's lives, aiming to enhance gender equality and the concept of shared parenting beyond couple separation.

Opposition to Surrogacy

While discussing reproductive technologies, Macron reaffirmed his stance against surrogacy, citing the "dignity of women" and his concerns over the commodification of women’s bodies. However, he acknowledged the need to support families with children born through surrogacy abroad.

Tackling Menopause and Women’s Aging

One of the standout points in Macron’s announcements was his focus on menopause—a subject often shrouded in societal taboos. He proposed:

• Menopause Mission: Led by MP Stéphanie Rist and Professor Florence Trémollières, this parliamentary mission aims to improve menopause care and education. It will evaluate current treatments and develop guidelines to better inform and support women during this significant life phase.

• Public Awareness and Research: The mission will also enhance public understanding of menopause and its health implications, encouraging more open discussions and preventative actions.

Consent and Legal Protections

Addressing the broader societal issues, Macron spoke on the need for clarity in laws regarding sexual consent. He highlighted ongoing legislative efforts to refine the legal framework, ensuring it respects foundational principles while effectively addressing cases of alleged sexual assault.

Macron’s Response to Controversy and Commitment to Victims

In the wake of controversies surrounding figures like actor Gérard Depardieu, Macron stressed his respect for the principles of innocence but reaffirmed his commitment to protecting victims of sexual violence. This stance underlines his broader approach to addressing gender-based violence and supporting victims' rights.

Conclusion

President Macron's wide-ranging proposals aim to address some of the most pressing issues in women's health and rights, from reproductive freedom and parental equality to breaking the silence around menopause. By taking these steps, Macron seeks to create a more inclusive and supportive framework for women's health in France, signaling a significant shift towards gender equality and individual freedoms.