A diverse and inclusive workforce should be the goal of every employer. Yet, there’s one crucial topic that is often overlooked or avoided: reproductive and women’s health issues. 

In a workplace where nearly half of the UK workforce is female, health concerns such as period pain, contraception, bacterial vaginosis, and menopause are still treated as taboo subjects. This lack of openness can lead to women suffering in silence, affecting their productivity, confidence, and mental health. 

Let’s break the stigma and create a more inclusive and supportive work environment for women. 

The Importance of Addressing Menopause at Work

Menopause is a natural phase in every woman’s life, yet it remains shrouded in stigma, especially in the workplace. By fostering a culture of understanding, employers can help women feel supported, rather than marginalised. 

Key Menopause Statistics 

• There are 4.6 million women over 50 in the UK workforce. 
• The average age for menopause is 51, but around 1 in 100 women experience it before age 40. 
• Menopause symptoms can last up to 10 years and include physical, cognitive, and psychological challenges like hot flushes, poor concentration, anxiety, and headaches. 
• 75% of women experience symptoms, and 25% face severe symptoms that impact their daily lives. 

How Menopause Affects Women at Work  

Without support, many women feel isolated and struggle to manage their symptoms in professional settings. Common workplace challenges include: 

• Reduced confidence in skills and abilities. 
• Feeling pressured to hide menopause-related absences. 
• Increased mental health issues such as stress, anxiety, and depression. 
• Difficulties with focus and concentration. 
• Considering leaving their jobs altogether. 

Creating an open dialogue about menopause can empower women to thrive in the workplace and help their colleagues understand and support them better. 

Speaking to Your Employer About Menopause 

If you’re experiencing menopause symptoms and it’s affecting your work, talking to your employer may feel daunting but is often an essential step toward getting the support you need. 

Steps to Take 

1. Schedule a private 1:1 meeting with your manager or HR representative. 
2. Bring along educational materials about menopause to help them understand its impact. 
3. Document your symptoms, how they’re affecting your work, and what adjustments you feel would help. 

Suggestions for Workplace Adjustments 

Small changes can make a significant difference. Propose the following ideas to your employer: 

• Flexible working arrangements. 
• Access to workplace counselling. 
• More frequent breaks throughout the day. 
• Extra preparation time before meetings or presentations. 
• Creating a company-wide Menopause Policy to support all employees.

Supporting Women’s Health Beyond Menopause 

It’s not just menopause that needs attention. Women face a range of health concerns, including period pain, endometriosis, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and mental health challenges. 

How Employers Can Help 

• Foster an open culture where women feel comfortable discussing health concerns. 
• Provide access to mental health support and physical health resources. 
• Promote awareness campaigns around women’s health issues to reduce stigma. 

Expert Women’s Health Support with Doctor Care Anywhere 

If you’re struggling with a women’s health issue and need extra support, Doctor Care Anywhere is here to help. 

Our platform allows you to access: 

• GPs and Advanced Clinical Practitioners available 7 days a week, 365 days a year. 
• Clinicians specialising in women’s health, who can provide tailored advice and treatments for conditions like menopause, menstrual health, and contraception. 

With just a few clicks, you can speak to a healthcare professional who understands the unique challenges women face. 

Why Women’s Health Matters in the Workplace 

Breaking the stigma around women’s health benefits everyone – not just the women directly affected. Creating an inclusive work culture: 

• Improves morale and productivity. 
• Boosts employee retention. 
• Encourages open and supportive communication. 

By addressing women’s health issues head-on, employers can create a healthier, happier, and more inclusive workplace. 

Key Takeaways 

• Menopause and women’s health issues are still treated as taboo subjects in many workplaces, but they shouldn’t be. 
• Open dialogue and practical adjustments can help women manage their symptoms and feel valued at work. 
• Employers and colleagues alike should be educated on women’s health to foster inclusivity and understanding. 
• Doctor Care Anywhere provides access to specialists in women’s health to support employees in managing their wellbeing. 

Let’s work together to break the stigma and ensure women feel supported, both inside and outside the workplace.