Menopause in the Workplace
Why it Matters
Women spend between 1,040 and 2,080 hours per year in the workforce, dedicating their time, skills, and energy to their careers. But how many of those hours are spent addressing their needs as they navigate menopause in the workplace?
The answer - almost none.
Despite its profound impact on energy, focus, and overall well-being, menopause remains one of the most overlooked aspects of workplace wellness. Millions of women are balancing careers while managing symptoms that affect their confidence, productivity, and daily performance—yet workplace awareness, discussion, and support remain scarce.
But this isn’t just a personal challenge—it’s a workplace challenge. Companies routinely accommodate health needs that impact performance, yet menopause—a major life transition affecting a growing and essential part of the workforce—is still ignored.
Supporting women through this transition isn’t just about fairness; it’s about retaining top talent, boosting productivity, and fostering a more inclusive, high-performing workplace.
The Facts
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A powerhouse in the workforce: More than 60% of women aged 50-64 are employed, making them one of the fastest-growing workplace demographics.
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It’s not just a phase: it’s nearly universal—90% of women over 35 experience menopausal symptoms, averaging five per person.
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It’s affecting performance: 1 in 4 women say their symptoms negatively impact their ability to work.
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The hidden cost of silence: Over 40% of disability claims for women are linked to mental health struggles, often influenced by reproductive health.
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The financial toll: Businesses lose a staggering $3.5 billion annually due to menopause-related work challenges.
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An ultimatum no one should have to face: 13% of women have quit their jobs, and 15% have seriously considered it because of symptoms.
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A global crisis in productivity: Menopause-related challenges cost the workforce $150 billion worldwide every year.
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A glass ceiling no one talks about: 40% of women believe menopause has held back their career progression.
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A conversation still in the shadows: 70% of women feel uncomfortable discussing menopause at work.
Why Supporting Menopause in the Workplace Matters
By recognizing and addressing menopause in the workplace, companies don’t just support their employees—they build a stronger, healthier, and more inclusive organization. The benefits include:
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Stronger retention: Women can choose to stay in their careers rather than leaving due to challenging symptoms.
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Better productivity: With the right support, women experience improved focus, energy, and efficiency.
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Lower absenteeism: A menopause-friendly workplace reduces sick days and presenteeism (working while unwell).
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A more supportive culture: Open conversations foster an environment where women thrive as leaders, innovators, and essential contributors.
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Improved employee engagement: Higher morale, stronger team collaboration, and a more positive workplace culture benefit the entire organization.
Menopause is a Workplace Issue - Not Just a Women’s Issue
Menopause doesn’t just affect women—it impacts entire workplaces. Colleagues, managers, and leadership teams often witness the changes but may not fully understand them. Educating everyone, including men, fosters empathy, reduces stigma, and creates a more inclusive, supportive work environment.
I recognize the importance of creating a private, safe space where women can openly share their experiences with confidence. Equally important is educating men—greater understanding allows them to support their colleagues effectively and contribute to a more inclusive workplace culture.
If your organization is interested in exploring this further, I can also facilitate separate discussions for both groups, creating space for open dialogue, shared experiences, and deeper understanding of each other's realities.
How I Can Help Your Workplace
I provide clear, accessible, and factual menopause education, equipping employers and employees with the knowledge and tools to create a supportive, inclusive workplace.
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Engaging, interactive workshops: Educational sessions designed to increase awareness, break stigma, and provide practical solutions for navigating menopause at work.
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Menopause awareness talks: Short, impactful presentations to spark conversation and normalize menopause in professional settings.
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Practical support strategies: Simple, actionable tools to help manage stress, improve energy, and enhance well-being.
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Guidance for leadership & HR: Helping managers and HR teams understand menopause so they can better support their employees.
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Customized workplace policies: Support in developing menopause-friendly policies and best practices to retain and create a healthier work environment.
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Employee resource & support groups: Facilitate guided discussions to foster open dialogue, connection, and a culture of understanding and shared experiences