Menopause affects all women, usually between the ages of 45 and 55. Comm...
Menopause affects all women, usually between the ages of 45 and 55. Common symptoms include brain fog, migraines, heart palpitations, hot flashes, joint aches and pains, low mood, trouble sleeping, anxiety, and more.
These symptoms can affect the efficiency of female, CIS women, trans, non-binary, and intersex workers. Catering to the wellbeing of menopausal workers requires education, understanding, communication, and a suitable menopause policy to protect and support them.
- Establish a policy: Every second person will be directly affected by menopause and most others will be affected indirectly. As more women continue to work into their 50's and beyond, it will serve every employer to support them to fulfil their potential.
- Communication is essential. Many women are uncomfortable discussing such personal issues with line managers, especially if they’re male or significantly younger, creating feelings of isolation and discrimination.
- Flexible work arrangements: to allow individuals to manage symptoms effectively. For example, if someone is experiencing insomnia, allowing them to work from home and start work later will give them more opportunity to rest and feel energised to work. If they are experiencing hot flashes, being at home will be a much more comfortable setting where they have access to a change of clothes and shower.
- Access to expert support: Menopause affects every woman differently, and the effects on both physical and mental health can vary massively. Due to these factors, no one solution fits every individual and even though support may be available, it won't necessarily be equally effective for everyone.To ensure effective support for your employees, consider personalised expert-led support.
- Manager Training: Provide information in digestible formats, explaining the effects of menopause, along with a guide on supportive measures and how to best approach employees.
- Menopause Champions: training a group of menopause champions continues to open the conversation around menopause and has a group of dedicated individuals who will be specialised to support individuals looking for guidance.