How to Start a Conversation about Menopause at Work

Jul 21, 2023

Menopause is a topic that many people don’t feel comfortable talking about openly, especially at work.

Despite this being a natural phase in a woman’s life that usually happens between the age of 40 and 55, we prefer to ignore these ‘women’s problems’ or any talk about hormones because of cultural stigma, lack of education or the association between menopause and ageing.

This can lead many women to suffer in silence, struggling to cope with the huge impact that this transition has on their mood, ability to think clearly or concentrate, energy levels and sleep, let alone the other symptoms they might experience.

Worse of all, perimenopause and menopause often happen when a woman is at the peak of her career and has become a trusted, talented team member or senior leader.

If we neglect the needs of these women and fail to provide the understanding and support they need, we could lose this key talent or unnecessarily spend on absenteeism or recruitment.

However, by starting a conversation about menopause, we can foster an inclusive working environment where women feel heard, supported and empowered and can continue to benefit your organisation for many years to come.

As an experienced Menopause in the Workplace consultant , I’ve delivered numerous training sessions, provided essential resources and helped create powerful Menopause in the Workplace policies that have helped bring employees together, reduce costs and provide exactly what these women need to thrive in the workplace, regardless of their hormonal status.

Today I’d like to share four simple ways you can take the first step and open up the conversation about menopause.

1. Write an article for the company newsletter about menopause

When you write your next company newsletter, why not add a short piece about menopause?

For example, you could share the real story of someone experiencing menopause at work (with their permission, of course), write an informative piece or even explain the impact of menopause at work and what your organisation is doing to help.

Whatever you choose, make sure any information you provide is accurate and up–to–date and fill in any gaps in your knowledge by referring to your Menopause in the Workplace training resources or other reliable sources.

Also, avoid using medical jargon and instead keep it friendly and interesting with practical solutions that make a real difference.

2. Create a poster or leaflet

Posters are a fantastic way to help raise awareness about menopause, encourage them to talk and break the taboo of menopause. They’re also simple and eye-catching and convey key information in a very compelling and reader-friendly way that everyone can read and understand.

Start by creating a message that is easy to understand and remember then include bright, uplifting images that represent everyone. Avoid making jokes or using language that could be offensive and make sure you’re sensitive to the needs of your audience.

Once you’re happy, display it in a prominent place such as the staff room or bathrooms for maximum impact.

3. Make the most out of awareness days

Throughout the year, health organisations like the WHO create awareness days to help people understand these conditions, bring people together and open up the discussion around these topics.

Menopause is no different! In fact, there are multiple days that you could use to get your employees talking about menopause and share the support and resources you offer these key team members.

This includes:

Put them in your diary then plan accordingly!

4. Organise a lunchtime learning session about menopause for employees

Did you know that ⅔ of women feel 'blindsided' by menopause, and just 25% of women felt 'reasonably knowledgeable' about the life stage when they were surveyed?

Without the essential information and support, your female employees could struggle in the workplace, battling their symptoms and trying their best to perform.

By organising a lunchtime learning session, you can provide the support these women need in an easy and accessible way that minimises disruptions.

Sign up for one of our Menopause in the Workplace Lunchtime Learning sessions and you’ll understand what menopause is, how it can impact everything from your sleep, your mood and your productivity levels, how to get the most out of HRT, menopause in colour and more. These sessions are 100% interactive so your employees can ask questions and gain the understanding they need.

Summary

With an estimated 13 million women in the UK currently experiencing perimenopause or menopause, employers must open up the conversation about this natural phase in a woman’s life and provide the training, support and resources they need to stay efficient, productive and creative.

By following the tips shared here and including menopause in your internal newsletter, creating posters, highlighting awareness days and signing up for lunchtime learning sessions, you can do exactly that.

It’s only by opening up the conversation about menopause that we can create a happier, more inclusive workplace for everyone and ensure that no woman gets left behind because of her age or hormonal status.