The menopause can be hard work. So, at work, let’s make it easier.
Easier to recognise. Easier to talk about. Easier to live with.
Menopausal symptoms usually start in the mid to late 40s during perimenopause. Post menopause refers to the period after 12 months without a period. Early menopause occurs before 40 and is sometimes called Premature Ovarian Insufficiency (POI), often linked to health conditions or treatments.
Menopause symptoms are unpredictable and indifferent to schedules. In the workplace, individuals experiencing menopause often feel isolated.
CIPD research shows many employees experiencing menopause avoid discussing symptoms at work due to embarrassment or concerns their employer will feel uncomfortable.
Promoting openness and understanding in the workplace supports those experiencing menopause and shows all staff that wellbeing matters.
Start with a team meeting on health and wellbeing to introduce sensitive topics:
When discussing menopause, be direct: “Today we’re talking about the menopause, its symptoms, workplace impact, and how to support each other.”
Open communication by inviting further discussion: “If you want to talk more, my door is always open.”
This shows commitment as an employer and mindful engagement with the topic:
Respect people’s experiences when they share about menopause symptoms, and encourage open conversation in the workplace.
Increasing understanding helps those currently experiencing menopause and reduces concerns for others in the future.
Discussing menopause at work ought to be actively promoted, rather than merely accepted.
Practical pointers for the workplace, to support women with menopausal symptoms…
If you experiencing symptoms such as hot flushes can your work station be moved closer to a window or an air conditioning vent, or use a fan to help keep cool and feel more comfortable?
Invest in breathable clothing which will help the air circulate and keep you cooler
Take some time out in a quiet area if you need to collect your thoughts privately or enjoy a peaceful break away from your work station
Some women won’t need medical treatment, but making some simple lifestyle changes can help manage milder symptoms before they get worse…
Talking to others who are experiencing or have recently experienced menopause can be comforting and reassuring.
Everyone’s symptoms and lifestyle impacts differ, but knowing you’re not alone and that symptoms are temporary is helpful.
Staying active throughout the day, not just during exercise, can help alleviate anxiety and stress.
Additionally, weight-bearing exercises have the potential to strengthen bones and lower the risk of osteoporosis, which is linked to menopause.
Maintaining a regular routine—especially when winter days are short and dark—can be challenging!
Decreased oestrogen levels are associated with an increased risk of heart disease and osteoporosis, a condition characterised by reduced bone strength and susceptibility to fractures.
Limiting the intake of saturated fats and salt can contribute to maintaining healthy blood pressure.
It is recommended to consume 2–3 servings of calcium-rich foods daily, such as a small container of yoghurt, a portion of cheese comparable to the size of a matchbox, or one-third of a pint of milk, to support bone health.
Additionally, vitamin D obtained from sources including oily fish, eggs, or supplements may further enhance bone strength.
Reducing your intake of alcohol, processed sugar, and caffeine may support better heart health and also lower the risk of experiencing low moods or mood swings.
Insufficient sleep can negatively impact both physical and mental health. Common symptoms of fatigue include irritability, depression, memory lapses, and increased errors.
These adjustments can enhance the quality of your sleep.
Limiting caffeine intake, especially later in the day, can promote better sleep.
Try turning off your phone or avoiding screens before bedtime.
Maintain a comfortable room temperature and use lighter bedding if hot flushes are an issue.
Refrain from eating heavy meals or drinking alcohol close to bed, and try not to nap during the day.
You can try over-the-counter medications like melatonin, but if you find it hard to manage your sleep problems, it’s wise to consult your GP.
For more help and signposting why not book one of our menopause health checks to help identify and monitor symptoms, as well as getting ideas for practical help to manage them.
To book contact occupationalhealth@lbbd.gov.uk
Dr Sheila Radhakrishnan, works as an NHS consultant for a London Teaching hospital, and is a highly experienced Consultant Gynaecologist specialising in all areas of Women’s health, with special emphasis on Menopause Care and Sexual difficulties. Here is a link to her web page https://sheilark.com/
Sheila’s specialist interests are in: Gynaecology such as PMS/PMDD, Menstrual Disorders, PCOS, Menopause and its management. Sheila ran 3 Menopause Care Events for women in the council.
To further enhance menopause support we now have a dedicated OH Nurse who will be holding Menopause Symptom Health Checks. The aim of the health check is to increase awareness of menopause and perimenopause symptoms, and to encourage open conversations regarding support needs.
To arrange an appointment contact occupationalhealth@lbbd.gov.uk
