How to manage the menopause at work

With the recent news from the Government that ‘menopausal women are the fastest-growing workplace demographic‘, this is becoming a significant issue for both employers and employees.

Some women transition through the menopause with barely a hot flush, but three out of four women do experience symptoms and for one in four, they can be serious indeed. Symptoms can be physical, such as night sweats, headaches and poor sleep, or psychological, including anxiety, depression, lack of confidence and problems concentrating. All of which can make employment more challenging and menopause symptoms are often cited as a reason for women to leave the workforce.

Menopause advice for employers

In 2016, the Faculty of Occupational Medicine introduced practical guidelines, including how to adapt the workplace environment where possible, such as changing room temperatures, having fans available, introducing flexible working hours or encouraging discussion about how symptoms are impacting their ability to work.

Menopause advice for employees

Adopting a healthy lifestyle is very important when managing the menopause. It’s important to seek advice from your private doctor regarding hormone replacement therapy (HRT) which can dramatically improve symptoms, allowing you to function better at work.