How Menopause Affects Women at Work

Menopause is a natural part of ageing that all women experience, but it often comes with a host of symptoms that can have a significant impact on daily life—especially at work. In the UK, nearly one in three women are currently going through menopause or perimenopause, which means millions of women are facing challenges in the workplace that many employers may not be fully aware of.

Creating a supportive and inclusive work environment is essential, and Occupational Health (OH) services can play a crucial role in achieving this. By offering a range of menopause-specific health services, OH professionals can help women navigate this transition with greater ease and confidence.

Menopause typically occurs between the ages of 45 and 55, though some women experience symptoms much earlier. It’s a period of significant hormonal change that can lead to a range of physical, mental, and emotional symptoms, which can last for several years. These symptoms can vary greatly from one woman to another, but common issues include:

• Hot Flushes and Night Sweats: These can cause embarrassment and discomfort, especially in public-facing roles or meetings. Night sweats can disrupt sleep, leading to fatigue and irritability during the day.
• Brain Fog and Memory Problems: Many women report issues with memory, focus, and concentration, commonly referred to as “brain fog.” This can make complex problem-solving or multi-tasking more challenging.
• Mood Swings and Anxiety: Emotional fluctuations, heightened anxiety, and irritability can affect interpersonal relationships with colleagues, making teamwork and communication difficult.
• Physical Aches and Fatigue: Joint pain, muscle aches, and general fatigue can make it hard to manage physical tasks, long meetings, or extended periods of sitting and standing.

These symptoms can affect productivity, attendance, and confidence at work. Many women feel that they have no option but to reduce their hours, take extended leave, or even leave the workforce altogether. A 2019 survey by the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) revealed that three in five menopausal women say the symptoms have negatively impacted them at work.

Despite the high prevalence of menopausal symptoms in working women, many organisations lack the policies or understanding needed to support them effectively. This can result in several workplace challenges:

1. Stigma and Silence: Menopause is still a taboo subject in many workplaces. Women may feel uncomfortable discussing their symptoms with managers or colleagues, which leads to a lack of support and necessary adjustments.
2. Lack of Flexible Working Options: Many women could benefit from adjustments such as flexible hours or the option to work from home, but these accommodations are not always offered or considered.
3. Insufficient Awareness and Training: Managers and HR personnel may not be equipped to recognise menopause-related issues or know how to offer support. This lack of understanding can create a hostile or unsupportive environment.
4. Inadequate Workplace Adjustments: Simple adjustments like having access to a fan, more frequent breaks, or a quiet space can make a huge difference, but they are often overlooked.

Occupational Health (OH) services can provide invaluable support for both employers and employees navigating the complexities of menopause at work. At ROC, specialise in offering comprehensive menopause-related health services tailored to individual needs. Here’s how we can help:

1. Confidential Consultations and Health Assessments

We offer one-to-one consultations where women can discuss their symptoms and how these impact their work. Our experienced GPs provide a safe, confidential environment to explore health concerns and develop a personalised plan for managing symptoms in the workplace.

2. Advice on Workplace Adjustments

Based on individual assessments, our experts can recommend practical adjustments that can significantly improve comfort and productivity. This might include recommendations for flexible working arrangements, adjustments to the work environment, or providing specialised equipment.

3. Training and Awareness Programmes for Managers

We provide training for managers and HR teams to help them better understand menopause and its potential impact on work performance. This training equips them with the knowledge and tools to support staff effectively, fostering a more inclusive workplace culture.

4. Mental Health Support

The emotional and psychological impact of menopause is often underestimated. We offer counselling and mental health support for women experiencing mood swings, anxiety, or depression, helping them build resilience and cope more effectively.

5. Policy Development and Implementation

Occupational Health can assist in developing comprehensive workplace policies that address menopause. This might include creating guidelines for absence management, ensuring reasonable adjustments, and establishing support networks or menopause champions within the organisation.

Employers have a duty of care to support their employees’ health and well-being. Creating a menopause-friendly workplace isn’t just about compliance—it’s about fostering an environment where all staff can thrive. Some steps employers can take include:

• Implement Flexible Working Options: Allowing employees to adjust their working hours or work from home can be invaluable for women experiencing severe menopause symptoms.
• Set Up Quiet Areas: Creating designated quiet spaces can help women experiencing hot flushes or anxiety find a moment of calm.
• Review Uniform and Dress Codes: Making uniforms out of breathable fabrics or allowing more casual attire during hot weather can make a big difference in comfort levels.
• Encourage Open Conversations: Establishing menopause as a normal topic of conversation at work helps reduce stigma and encourages women to seek the support they need.

At ROC, we provide tailored support to women experiencing menopause and help employers create a more inclusive and supportive work environment. If you’d like to learn more about our menopause-related health services or to book a consultation, Get in touch.