Greens plan to end menopause treatment horror stories

The committee heard "horror stories" from women about medication costs, said inquiry co-sponsor and Greens spokesperson for women Larissa Waters.

"We were told about one woman who was controlling her anxiety and depression with MHT until she could no longer afford it, she was forced to ask for Valium because it is PBS listed and $15 for a box of 50," she said.

"For too long, women experiencing menopause and perimenopause have suffered in silence."

Larissa Waters said the Greens want $50m annually to subsidise treatments and prevent shortages. (Mick Tsikas/AAP PHOTOS)

Women typically enter menopause between 45 to 60 years of age, and perimenopause - which precedes it - can last for up to 10 years and start in their 30s. 

Tiredness, aches and pains, menstrual changes, a racing heart, difficulty sleeping, increased irritability and depression are on the long list of symptoms. 

Speaking at the Asia-Pacific Conference on Women's Mental Health on Friday, Senator Waters said the minor party wants $50 million annually towards subsidising treatments and preventing medication shortages.

A $5 million national education campaign also featured in the party's election policy, aimed both at the public and health professionals.

Labor, Liberal and Greens senators all agreed the government should look at ways to make menopause hormonal therapies more affordable and accessible in the committee's September's inquiry report.

Education and awareness campaigns also attracted broad support.

The government was also urged to consider paid gender-inclusive reproductive leave, though coalition senators argued it was a matter for the private sector.

Employers would be in a better position to determine what was needed to keep and motivate staff, they said.

Unions call for 10 annual days of reproductive health leave for both men and women, which could involve vasectomies or attending a pregnancy appointment.