How to support employees going through the menopause
What do Joe Wicks, Gwyneth Paltrow and Divina McCall have in common?
Yes, they are all celebrities, but did you know that they are all, one way or another, breaking the taboo around, you guessed it - the menopause.
The menopause is slowly getting more traction thanks to some big names creating podcasts and workouts to support women going through this transformative phase.
But now it’s time for businesses to catch up.
After all, the menopause isn't just a women's issue - it's everyone's business.
As we celebrate World Health Day on April 7th, discover how you can provide effective employee menopause support and foster a more supportive workplace culture.
It’s not as difficult as you think.
Understanding Women's Health in the Workplace
Women's health in the workplace encompasses a broad spectrum of issues, and menopause is a significant part of it.
With 8 out of 10 menopausal women at work, they are the fastest-growing demographic in the workplace. But what exactly is the menopause?
What is the Menopause?
Menopause is a natural phase in a woman's life typically occurring between the ages of 45 and 55, although it can start earlier or later for some. It is defined as the phase when a woman’s body stops menstruating. It begins 12 months after your last period.
What are the symptoms of the Menopause?
The symptoms vary from person to person, but often include:
- Cognitive and psychological effects like anxiety, brain fog, depression, mood swings, and irritability
- Vasomotor symptoms such as hot flashes and night sweats
- Genito-urinary issues like incontinence and urinary tract infections (UTIs)
- Musculoskeletal challenges including achy joints and reduced bone density
- Digestive discomfort
- Fatigue
- Sleep disturbances
- Increased sensitivity to noise
- Dizziness
- Headache
Recognising the Impact on Women's Health at Work
In February this year, the Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) issued guidance for employers to clarify the legal obligations to employees going through menopause.
Employers must now make sure that they make ‘reasonable adjustments’ to help women going through the menopause.
This should come as no surprise, as the symptoms mentioned can significantly impact a woman's ability to perform her best at work. From decreased concentration and memory lapses to increased stress and anxiety, these challenges can affect productivity and overall wellbeing.
With more awareness of menopause and the impact issues such as this have on employee wellbeing, it's no wonder that 4 in 10 employers are looking to increase their spending on employee benefits this year. That’s according to the latest research from Group Risk Development (Grid).
As an employer, how can you support the 1.2 million women in the UK who have been negatively impacted by menopausal symptoms? Read on to find out.
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How to Support Employees Going Through the Menopause
1. Education and Awareness
Start by raising awareness about menopause and its potential impact on work performance. Provide educational resources and training sessions to help managers and colleagues understand the symptoms and challenges women may face during this phase.
2. Introduce Stella - a menopause support app
Stella is a menopause support app designed to assist women in managing their symptoms.
Stella offers personalised health insights, tailored symptom management plans, in-app coaching from psychology-trained professionals, expert content from clinicians, and access to a supportive online community.
Want to know more? Download our factsheet here.
3. Flexible Work Arrangements
Offer flexible work arrangements such as flexible hours, remote work options, or the ability to take breaks when needed. This flexibility can help women manage their symptoms more effectively and maintain their productivity levels.
4. Open Communication
Encourage open and supportive communication channels where employees feel comfortable discussing their menopausal symptoms and any accommodations they may need. Create a culture of empathy and understanding, free from judgment or stigma.
5. Wellness Programmes
Implement wellness programmes that focus on women's health and wellbeing, including initiatives targeted specifically at menopause support. Offer resources such as access to healthcare professionals, counselling services, or wellbeing coaching to help women cope with their symptoms.
6. Policy Review
Review existing policies to ensure they are inclusive and supportive of employees going through menopause. Consider implementing policies that address accommodations for menopausal symptoms, such as additional breaks or modified work duties.
7. Employee Assistance Programmes (EAPs)
Offer access to EAPs that provide confidential counselling and support services for employees experiencing menopausal symptoms. These programmes can offer valuable resources and guidance to help women navigate this phase of their lives with confidence.
Support Women's Health in the Workplace
Understanding how to support employees going through menopause is essential for promoting women's health at work and building a more inclusive workforce.
By prioritising employee menopause support, employers demonstrate their commitment to women's health at work and reap numerous benefits for their organisation.
Proactive measures such as education, wellness programmes and using specific menopause apps like Stella, allow you to create a supportive environment where your employees feel empowered to navigate this natural phase of life with confidence and dignity.
