Let's Talk About Menopause: Fostering Open Conversations in the Workplace
Why It's Important to Discuss Menopause and Perimenopause at Work
Menopause and perimenopause are natural life stages that impact millions of women globally. Over 1.1 billion women are expected to experience menopause by 2025, with many starting perimenopause as early as their 30s. These stages bring symptoms which can deeply affect work performance and quality of life.
Menopause is a natural biological process that marks the end of a woman's menstrual cycles. It is diagnosed after 12 consecutive months without a menstrual period and typically occurs in women. Menopause can bring a variety of medical symptoms due to the decline in hormones such as estrogen and progesterone. Here are some common symptoms associated with menopause:
Hot Flashes and Night Sweats: Sudden feelings of heat or intense warmth, often accompanied by sweating, can occur during the day or night.
Irregular Periods: Menstrual cycles may become longer or shorter before they eventually stop.
Vaginal Dryness: Reduced estrogen levels can cause the vaginal tissues to become drier, resulting in discomfort or pain during intercourse.
Sleep Problems: Many women experience insomnia or difficulty staying asleep, which can be exacerbated by night sweats.
Mood Changes: Increased risk of mood swings, irritability, or even depression and anxiety.
Weight Gain and Slowed Metabolism: Changes in hormonal levels can lead to weight gain and a slowed metabolism.
Thinning Hair and Dry Skin: Some women might notice a reduction in hair volume and changes in skin texture.
Loss of Breast Fullness: hormonal changes can also affect breast tissue, leading to a less full appearance.
Joint and Muscle Pain: Menopause can also bring about aches, stiffness, or discomfort in muscles and joints.
Memory Problems or Concentration Issues: Some women report brain fog or difficulty focusing.
Changes in Libido: A decrease in sexual interest or arousal might occur.
It's important for women going through menopause to have regular check-ups with their healthcare provider to manage symptoms and maintain overall health. Lifestyle changes, hormone therapy, and other treatments can often help alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life.
Just imagine feeling those things while maintaining a workload and not feeling you can talk about this on the job! It’s happening every day!
Studies show that about 25% of women in the workforce are over 50, directly experiencing menopause, and a significant portion are in perimenopause. This demographic forms a critical component of the work ecosystem. Research from the Bank of America indicates that nearly a quarter of women have considered leaving their jobs due to menopausal symptoms. Failing to address these issues contributes to decreased productivity, heightened absenteeism, and talent loss.
Starting Conversations: Employee Resource Groups and Mentoring Circles
Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) designed for menopause discussions can be a catalyst for change. These ERGs foster open communication and provide platforms for employees to share experiences and lobby for necessary policy changes.
Mentoring circles also play a crucial role by offering a network of support. Women can connect, share insights, and bolster each other, fostering increased confidence and reduced stress amid menopause and perimenopause.
Promoting Health Benefits
Organizations that introduce menopause-friendly policies enjoy concrete benefits. A healthcare study in Europe found that such policies contributed to a 48% reduction in menopause-related absenteeism. Flexible working conditions, along with wellness programs and counseling, also help reduce turnover rates and promote a supportive culture. And did you know companies like Midi offer on-line menopause clinical services - with many insurance providers signed on for coverage - making it uber-easy for employees to seek support.
Consequences of Neglecting Menopause Conversations
Ignoring menopause and perimenopause in the workplace leads to significant economic repercussions, including high absenteeism and costly turnover. Studies highlight that companies lacking menopause support face elevated operational costs and decreased employee satisfaction.
Benefits of Addressing Menopause and Perimenopause Symptoms
Embracing open conversations about menopause greatly benefits workplace culture by eradicating stigma and enabling women to access necessary support mechanisms. Research confirms that women in menopause-friendly environments report higher job satisfaction and increased loyalty.
By fostering understanding and support for menopause and perimenopause, organizations not only support their employees but also elevate overall productivity and morale. Let us create workplaces that nurture everyone at every stage of life.
Call to Action!
So - my challenge to you? CREATE A CONVERASATION!
Start a resource group at your work focused on menopause
Educate your team at work on benefits related to benefits
Ask your HR leader to add benefits to your offering
Educate yourself on new ways to access care - such as through an online menopause clinic from companies like Midi.
Offer a lunch & learn on menpoause at work open to all ages, genders and interests to learn more (yes, men should be a part of the conversation! Create your meno-allies!)
Ask for flexible work policies
Come see me speak on this topic in Amsterdam May 22, 2025 - at the Public Medicine Conference.
References and further reading
Menopause in the workplace: Challenges, impact, and next steps. (2024, July 1). National Institutes of Health. Retrieved from https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles
Impact of menopausal symptoms on work and careers: a cross-sectional survey. National Institutes of Health. Retrieved from https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles
Impact of Menopause Symptoms on Women in the Workplace. (2023, April 26). Mayo Clinic Proceedings. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinicproceedings.org/article/fulltext