Menopause Awareness: How Workplaces Can Support Staff

Menopause is a natural part of life, yet it’s often left unspoken, especially in workplaces. It’s more than just a health topic, it’s about creating environments where employees feel understood, respected, and supported every step of the way.

In this guide, we’ll explore what menopause is, common symptoms, treatment options, why awareness matters in workplaces, the importance of World Menopause Awareness Month 2025.

What is Menopause?

Menopause marks the end of menstrual cycles and usually occurs between ages 45 and 55. It happens when the ovaries produce fewer hormones, primarily oestrogen and progesterone.

Menopause has three main stages:

• Perimenopause: The transitional phase before menopause, often starting in your 40s. Hormonal changes can cause irregular periods and early symptoms like hot flashes or mood swings.

• Menopause: When you haven’t had a period for 12 months, marking the end of your reproductive years.

• Postmenopause: The years after menopause. Some symptoms may ease, but health risks such as weaker bones (osteoporosis) or heart disease can increase.

Understanding these stages helps workplaces support employees effectively, allowing managers and colleagues to create a compassionate and accommodating environment.

Common Symptoms of Menopause

Menopause symptoms vary widely. Some people experience mild changes, while others face more severe challenges. Common symptoms include:

• Hot flashes and night sweats

• Mood swings, anxiety, or depression

• Sleep disturbances

• Fatigue and low energy

• Memory lapses or difficulty concentrating

• Irregular periods or vaginal dryness

Recognising these signs early can make it easier to manage them and get the right support.

How to Manage Menopause: Practical Steps & Treatment Options

Menopause is a natural stage of life, but there are several ways to manage its symptoms and feel your best:

• Eat well: Include plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Reducing processed foods and alcohol can ease hot flashes and support heart and bone health.
• Stay active: Gentle daily exercise like walking, yoga, or stretching can lift your mood, improve sleep, and strengthen bones.
• Sleep & stress: Maintain regular bedtimes, limit caffeine, practice mindfulness, and enjoy relaxing hobbies to reduce anxiety, brain fog, and boost overall wellbeing.
• Medical support: For more challenging symptoms, Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT), non-hormonal medications, or consulting a healthcare provider can provide relief and help you choose the best approach.

Menopause symptoms typically last 4 to 8 years, though some may persist longer. Lifestyle changes and self-care can significantly improve daily wellbeing.

Menopause Awareness in the Workplaces

Menopause can affect both physical and emotional health, impacting work performance. Employees may experience fatigue, mood swings, or difficulty concentrating. Without awareness, these challenges can lead to stress, stigma, or reduced confidence.

Did you know: 1 in 10 women leave their jobs due to menopause symptoms, while 42% of employees feel uncomfortable talking about menopause at work. That’s why workplace awareness and training are essential.

How workplaces can help:

• Flexible schedules & workload adjustments: Help employees manage fatigue.

• Open conversations: Reduce stigma and create a supportive culture.

• Menopause awareness training: Equips managers and colleagues to provide practical support and understanding.

Providing menopause training creates a more inclusive, empathetic, and productive workplace culture.

World Menopause Awareness Month 2025: Breaking the Silence

October is World Menopause Awareness Month, a time to raise awareness, dispel myths, and encourage open conversations while promoting health and wellbeing. The 2025 theme, “Breaking the Silence,” highlights the importance of supportive workplace policies and investing in menopause awareness training.

It’s a timely reminder that menopause deserves recognition, understanding, and respect.

Take Action: Enrol in Menopause Awareness Training

Understanding menopause and its impact on employees is not just a health issue, it’s an opportunity to build stronger, more supportive workplaces.

Our menopause awareness training provides practical insights, guidance on supporting colleagues, and strategies to implement policies that make a real difference.

Investing in awareness and training empowers staff, improves wellbeing, and contributes to a more inclusive workplace culture.