Skip to content

Menopause

What is Menopause?​
​
Menopause occurs 12 months and one day after your last period

  • The average age of menopause is 51 but it can occur earlier or later​
  • It occurs due to the ovaries no longer producing eggs and a fall in the hormones oestrogen, progesterone and testosterone. ​
  • Perimenopause is the period of time before menopause, where hormone levels drops and many symptoms can be experienced. This can last for many years.
  • This very informative 13 minute video ​explains the Menopause, including examples of how employers can support their staff.

What are the symptoms?

Oestrogen effects every system in the body, and every cell has oestrogen receptors, so the symptoms are many and varied. Some are listed below, but it is important to remember that everyone’s symptoms and their severity will be different.

  • Anxiety
  • Hot flushes and night sweats​
  • Fatigue and insomnia​
  • Poor mental focus and concentration 
  • Short term memory loss ​
  • Joint and muscle aches and pains
  • Mood related symptoms 
  • Lack of confidence​
  • Headaches and migraines
  • Loss of sex drive
  • Vaginal dryness ​

  • Urinary and bladder problems

How to access support, and how to support your staff regarding Menopause

  • We should all being having those honest conversations about how we really are and how we can be helped to work at our best
  • ​Speak to your manager and team – are there reasonable adjustments than can help you feel more supported at work ​
  • ​Check out your organisations Menopause Policy ​
  • Seek help and guidance from your GP or medical professionals
  • Approach conversations with kindness and an inclusive safe space for those that may find it more difficult to discuss

Reasonable adjustments could include:

  • Adjustment to uniform
  • Flexible working hours​
  • Equipment or desk location​
  • Education
  • Time to listen​
  • Access to a quiet space 
  • Close access to bathroom facilities

If you are concerned about any symptoms you may be experiencing, it is really important to contact your GP and speak with a medical professional. There are links below that can be used as a source of information or to understand what symptoms can be linked to menopause. 

If you are comfortable, speak with your manager or HR about your menopause journey and the symptoms you are experiencing. It will help them to understand and you can discuss what adjustments may be possible to ensure you feel supported and allow you to continue to work to the best of your abilities.

 

Access free online training and resources:

Please go to our Wellbeing A-Z main page for more topic areas.