1 in 10 women leave the workplace in early menopause, often at the peak of their career. Menopausal symptoms are real and affect every area of a woman’s life. Disturbed sleep due to night sweats, hot flashes during a meeting, brain fog, and irritability can leave women feeling frustrated and lacking confidence at work. It is important to bring awareness and normalize this universal experience for women. When employers and employees start the conversation, women can champion the workplace through midlife. This week on Fox17, Dr. Bitner shares the importance of addressing menopause’s role in the workplace and what you can do to create a more supportive environment.
Fact #1
Menopause’s impact on women in the workplace is too significant to overlook. Symptoms can take a physical, emotional, and mental toll on the body. Along with hot flashes, brain fog, and fatigue, many women experience anxiety and depression. In the workplace, menopause can also create additional career challenges, such as reduced productivity, workplace stigma, and decreased confidence as the body undergoes change. Consider these facts to understand the profound impact of menopause:
- 6000 women in the U.S. alone enter menopause every day.
- Menopause is not a choice; it happens to all women.
- 80% of women experience symptoms that affect their quality of life
- Missed workdays from disruptive menopause symptoms cause an estimated 1.8 billion in lost revenue every year.
- The average age of women at the height of their symptoms is 47-55, typically near the peak of their careers.
- Symptoms persist for several years.
Fact #2
Making the workplace more flexible can give women peace of mind during menopause. So, what do women want in the workplace? Their needs focus on flexibility and understanding from their employers. When menopause benefits are provided at work, 58% of women report a positive impact on their work. When surveyed, women highlighted the desire for:
- Ability to control the temperature or at least take breaks from the factory floor.
- Flexible hours when menopause symptoms disrupt their sleep.
- Ability to openly discuss menopause symptoms comfortably without fear of retribution or discrimination.
Fact #3
Start the conversation. It’s important for women to speak up and advocate for menopause awareness in the workplace. When one person stands up, others will follow. When companies prioritize creating a culture and environment that champions women in menopause, they only increase their ability to succeed. Here’s how employers can take the lead in addressing menopause at work:
- Use resources like Menopause.org, which offers workplace awareness kits.
- Make it known that conversations around menopause are welcomed.
- Create a support group where all levels of employees can participate.
- Include men in the conversation; they likely have women in their lives or work who suffer from symptoms of menopause.
- Talk about accommodations such as temperature control and the option for flexible hours.
Fact #4
This is bigger than just you and your employer. Menopause impacts our homes, healthcare costs, insurance, and overall well-being. Everyone has a role to play in creating better support systems for women.
The government can:
- Mandate menopause care for government-funded programs.
- Provide coverage for services for government employees.
- Legislation of coverage for FDA-approved treatments.
Insurers can:
- Continue coverage for FDA-approved treatments for menopause.
- Improve coverage for menopause treatments for women on Medicare and Medicaid.
- Provide better coverage for visits for menopause-related care.
- Create menopause programs and insurance options for employers.
Fact #5
Action is happening in Michigan. With Governor Whitmer’s support, the Michigan Women’s Commission will hold events around the state of Michigan to increase awareness of Menopause in the Workplace. Their goal is to make it known that addressing the needs of menopausal women is more than just the right thing to do; it is important for our economic growth and prosperity in Michigan.
Patient story:
Jane, 51, had been working at a bank for over 15 years and was hoping for a promotion to VP. She was nervous her menopausal symptoms would keep her from the new position, and she felt embarrassed that colleagues would see her as less capable. Jane suffered from night sweats, terrible brain fog, and forgetfulness and was afraid her irritability had been noticed at work.
When she visited the doctors concerning her symptoms, they were able to define her phase of ovarian function as early menopause and discussed treatment options. Jane chose to trial menopause hormone therapy and left feeling hopeful. When she returned for a follow-up, she was feeling better and sleeping again. Jane also felt empowered to speak up about menopause in the workplace to help other women in her company.
Takeaway Tip:
Menopause will be taboo as long as we allow it to be! Let’s celebrate women in their midlife and advocate for more awareness in the workplace. Don’t suffer in silence! Resources are available for education in the workplace and treatment options to find relief for your symptoms.
