Is Menopause silently pushing women out of work?

Shining a light on the the often-overlooked statistics and information about menopause, revealing its profound impact on women in the workplace.

Menopause is a natural phase in a woman’s life, yet its impact on the workplace is often overlooked. In the UK, where a significant portion of the workforce comprises, women aged 40 to 60, the effects of menopause on work performance, attendance, and career progression are becoming increasingly evident. This article explores how menopause might be silently pushing women out of work and what can be done to support them.

Menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, and mood swings can severely affect a woman’s ability to concentrate and perform her duties. According to recent surveys, 67% of women in this age group report that menopause has a mostly negative impact on their work. Reduced concentration (79%) and increased stress (68%) are common issues that can lead to decreased productivity and job satisfaction. The physical and emotional toll of menopause often results in increased absenteeism. Over half of the women surveyed (53%) have had to miss work due to menopause symptoms. This not only affects their career progression but also disrupts team dynamics and overall workplace productivity.

Despite the significant impact of menopause on work performance, only about a quarter of UK organisations have a menopause policy or support measures in place. This lack of formal support leaves many women to manage their symptoms on their own, often in silence. Without proper policies, there is a risk of misunderstanding and lack of empathy from colleagues and managers. Flexible working arrangements and the ability to control the workplace temperature are seen as the most helpful adjustments for menopausal women. However, only 26% and 25% of organizations offer these accommodations, respectively. Implementing such measures can make a substantial difference in helping women manage their symptoms and maintain their productivity.

Menopausal symptoms can hinder career progression. Many women feel less confident and more anxious, which can affect their performance and opportunities for advancement. The physical and emotional challenges of menopause can lead to decreased engagement and ambition, making it harder for women to pursue promotions or take on new challenges. A significant number of women consider leaving their jobs due to the lack of support and understanding around menopause. This potential loss of experienced and skilled employees is a critical issue for organizations. By failing to address the needs of menopausal women, companies risk losing valuable talent and institutional knowledge.

Encouraging open discussions about menopause can help destigmatize the topic and make it easier for women to seek support. Creating a culture of openness and understanding can lead to better communication and more effective support strategies. Training managers to recognize and address menopause-related issues can also foster a more inclusive and supportive work environment. Offering flexible working hours and environments can help women manage their symptoms more effectively. Flexibility in work schedules allows women to adjust their work hours to better align with their energy levels and symptom patterns. Additionally, providing options for remote work or adjusting the physical work environment can help alleviate some of the discomfort associated with menopause.

Addressing the impact of menopause in the workplace is not just a matter of health and well-being; it is also a critical factor in promoting gender equality and retaining valuable talent. By implementing supportive policies and fostering an inclusive culture, organizations can help women navigate this challenging phase of life while continuing to thrive in their careers. It’s time to break the silence and ensure that menopause does not silently push women out of work.

At Cavendish Wellbeing, we understand the unique challenges that menopause can bring to your professional life. That’s why we offer specialized Menopause Talks designed to provide you with the information, support, and community you need. Our sessions cover a range of topics, from managing symptoms to navigating workplace conversations, all aimed at empowering you to thrive during this phase of life. We believe that no woman should have to face menopause alone or feel that it is a barrier to her career. Our Menopause Talks are a safe space where you can share your experiences, learn from experts, and connect with others who understand what you’re going through. Together, we can break the silence and create a more supportive and inclusive work environment for all women.

For more information on our Menopause Talks and other resources, visit the website page or contact us directly. Let’s work together to ensure that menopause is not a silent career killer but a phase where women can continue to excel and achieve their professional goals