Menopause in the workplace: challenges and solutions for a supportive environment
Adora discusses the effect of menopause on workplace performance and how organisations can address these issues and create a supportive environment.
Menopause is a significant life stage that affects a large proportion of women, with up to 90% experiencing symptoms, and 25% facing severe symptoms that disrupt their daily lives (1). This transition can present unique challenges in the workplace, impacting both employees and the organisations they work for. Addressing these issues is crucial to creating a supportive environment that allows women to thrive
How Peri/Menopause symptoms affect workplace performance
Women going through peri/menopause may experience symptoms that significantly impact their work performance. Cognitive issues like brain fog can affect concentration, memory, and focus, making it difficult to complete tasks. Hot flushes can cause fatigue, embarrassment, and discomfort, while sleeplessness can deplete energy levels and reduce productivity.
Physical symptoms such as joint pain can cause discomfort during daily tasks, and emotional changes, including low mood and anxiety, can diminish confidence. What’s more, the fear that these symptoms might negatively affect work performance can lead to additional stress, compounding the overall impact on women’s work lives.
Concerns about career progression and asking for help
Asking for help at work can be daunting for women experiencing menopause, especially when discussing it with management. 52% of women are uncomfortable discussing menopause with a male manager, and 17% feel the same about approaching a female manager (2). Fear of how these discussions may affect their career progression and create further barriers to seeking the support they need.
28% of women believe that menopause has hindered their career progression (3). This reluctance to seek workplace adjustments leads to an unnecessary loss of talent and skills, affecting both the individual and the business.
“As women, as we get older and start experiencing these symptoms, it's hard to talk about it because you don't want to be viewed differently. It can be a confusing time, and some days, you have no idea why you feel the way you do.” - Adora users
The business case for a supportive culture
Beyond the personal toll on women, menopause has a significant impact on businesses. Research shows that one in ten women consider leaving the workforce due to menopause, resulting in a loss of experienced employees, which in turn drains businesses of valuable skills and increases recruitment and training costs.
Creating a supportive workplace culture is not just about employee wellbeing, but also a sound business decision. When women feel empowered to manage their symptoms without fear of discrimination or career setbacks, they are more likely to stay engaged and productive. Additionally, implementing policies to prevent age and gender discrimination benefits the entire organisation by fostering a fairer and more inclusive environment.
Long-term measures for sustainable support
To support women experiencing menopause, businesses should implement clear policies that recognise it as a key health issue. Workplace adjustments, such as flexible hours for sleepless nights or temperature control for hot flushes, can improve conditions. Fostering a culture of education and awareness through regular workshops and training is essential. Initiatives like Menopause Cafs or appointing Menopause Champions offer ongoing support, providing a space for women to share advice and access resources. These small, cost-effective changes create a more understanding work environment, ensuring women feel heard and supported during menopause.
Personalised support for women going through menopause
A key factor in helping women thrive at work during menopause is offering personalised support. Services like Adora provide tailored resources that meet individual needs. Access to qualified menopause specialists ensures that women receive expert care. Adora’s AI menopause companion offers ongoing, personalised advice, while live webinars and community support sessions give women the opportunity to share their experiences and learn from others.
By partnering with Adora, businesses can enhance their employee benefits, offering personalised menopause care that supports both employees and the organisation. This proactive approach improves employee wellbeing and reinforces the company's commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
"Supporting menopause in the workplace is not just about health and wellbeing, it's about fostering an inclusive environment where everyone thrives. The roll-out of the ADORA platform is a testament to our commitment to providing comprehensive resources and driving inclusivity, ensuring that every individual feels valued and supported.” - Louise Oxenham, Group HR manager at Activate Learning
Conclusion: supporting women through Menopause benefits everyone
Creating a menopause-friendly workplace is essential for both women and businesses. By recognising the challenges women face during peri/menopause, and implementing supportive measures, companies can retain talent, improve productivity, and foster a culture of inclusivity. With the right tools and resources in place, businesses can ensure their employees thrive at every stage of their careers, creating a more positive and productive work environment.
If you’d like to learn more about Adora and how they can support your organisation with peri/menopause, you can contact their team here https://www.adora.health/bookabrainstorm
- What-is-the-menopause
- BSI white paper, Lifting the Second Glass Ceiling
- Gendered Ageism report from Working Wise, quoted by the Institute of Employment Rights