Menopause in the Workplace: Challenges and Implications
Menopause symptoms can affect concentration and productivity, leading to decreased job performance and increased absenteeism. Presenteeism, continuing to work although unwell, may also be an issue. Additionally, mood swings and irritability may strain interpersonal relationships and contribute to workplace tension. Women navigating menopause may also face stigma, misconceptions, and a lack of awareness among colleagues and managers, creating an environment where they feel uncomfortable discussing their experiences or seeking support.
Professor Joanna Brewis, co-author of the UK Government Report on Menopause Transition and the Effects on Women's Economic Participation, highlights that ‘menopausal women are the fastest-growing workforce demographic,’ with nearly 80% of menopausal women actively engaged in employment. While many women may experience mild or no symptoms, others face severe and sometimes debilitating challenges.
A 2023 Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development survey revealed that 84% of women who are unsupported at workplaces say their menopause symptoms have a mostly negative effect on them at work. According to the Menopause and Workplace Productivity report from 20 August 2024, there is evidence that early and severe menopause directly affects productivity and/or reduces time in employment, e.g. through reduced hours, increased sick leave, or early retirement.
Healthcare and workplace measures both play a role in mitigating the impacts of menopause-related symptoms at work. It is therefore essential for organisations to recognise that their staff may be experiencing menopause and to foster inclusive and supportive work environments.
While some progress has been made in normalising conversations around menopause, there is still significant potential for organisations to enhance their support for women in the workplace. This would not only empower women but also enable organisations to retain invaluable expertise and ensure business continuity.
Supporting Colleagues Through Menopause
A holistic approach to health, encompassing nutrition, physical activity, mental health, and wellbeing can not only improve some menopause symptoms but also have long-term health benefits. Employers can support their staff by providing education programs, healthy eating options, and access to health screening programs.
- Mental health tools such as mindfulness meditation, deep breathing exercises, and cognitive-behavioral techniques can aid in managing stress, anxiety, and mood fluctuations associated with menopause.
- Seeking support from healthcare professionals, virtual or in-person support groups, or counseling services can provide valuable resources and guidance.
- Creating a supportive workplace environment facilitates open communication and fosters empathy towards colleagues navigating menopause.
- Colleagues and managers can encourage an open dialogue to create a culture of empathy and understanding, making the topic of menopause and women’s reproductive health less taboo.
- Offering flexible work hours or hybrid/remote work options can help accommodate fluctuating energy levels and the stress of commuting. In the office, resources such as portable fans, water stations, and break rooms can be helpful without singling any employees out.
- Promoting virtual or physical support groups along with employee assistance programmes is another strategy for improving employees’ mental and physical wellbeing.
Investing in such initiatives goes beyond the wellbeing of employees; it also helps achieve tangible ROI through improved productivity, employee satisfaction, reduced turnover, and retention of top female talent in our workforce. Join our wellbeing experts for a detailed discussion on Women's Health. For more insights on creating inclusive workplace health programmes, read our article on supporting men’s mental health and wellbeing at work.
Our Wellbeing and Occupational Health specialists can help you design and implement tailored programmes that meet the specific needs of your organisation. Contact us to start a conversation about how we can support your workforce and drive your business forward.