The menopause is a natural stage of life and a part of normal ageing. The average age in the UK is 51 years old but menopause can occur early for health reasons. The average duration of the menopause is 4 years, but it can last up to 12 years in 10% of people. This is significant when we consider the symptoms and the impact that the menopause can have given that over 70% of the workforce in the UK are female.
It is therefore crucial for employers to have systems in place (such as a menopause policy) to provide an inclusive and supportive working environment which considers that those going through the menopause may require additional support before, during and after the menopause.
People’s experiences of the menopause may differ greatly. Several symptoms are associated with menopause and these symptoms can significantly impact an individual’s quality of life and work. Urinary symptoms such as urinary frequency, recurrent urinary infections and incontinence occur in 50% of those going through the menopause. Other common symptoms include hot flushes, night sweats, skin changes, poor sleep, depression, fatigue and poor memory.
There are different types of treatment options which may help individuals through the menopause including prescribed medication such as hormonal treatment, however, these may not be suited for everyone and there may be associated risks and side effects.
Adjustments in the workplace can greatly improve the working conditions of those going through the menopause alongside medical or holistic management. Adjustments which are likely to be beneficial such as those recommended by the European Menopause and Andropause Society (EMAS) are listed below:
• Provide training for employees and managers to raise awareness.
• Facilitate discussion between employees and managers about symptoms.
• Review workplace temperature and consider adaptations e.g. desk fan etc.
• Consider flexible hours and shift changes (helpful in sleep disturbance).
• Provide access to cold drinking water in all locations (including off-site)
• Ensure access to washroom and toilet facilities (including off-site)
• Consider uniform flexibility.
• Short breaks as needed for hot flushes.
• Postural breaks as needed.
Please contact us if you need professional medical advice about the menopause. We can help employers and employees by providing tailored workplace adjustment services, equipment recommendations, individual medical assessments, education programmes and staff training.
Resources (please click below to access these useful resources):
https://emas-online.org/
https://smartermenopause.com/index.php/2018/07/14/menopause-and-hormone-replacement-therapy/
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/menopause/
