Menopause in the Workplace: The Unspoken Issue!

On the 8th of March, we celebrate International Women's Day, a moment to reflect on progress and challenges in gender equality. This year's theme focuses on workplace equality, but how equal is the workplace if so many women struggle with (peri)menopause symptoms and no one talks about it?

Our recent research with iVox reveals that menopause is not only a taboo but also leads to misdiagnoses and unnecessary suffering at work. The statistics are alarming:

• Nearly 9 out of 10 women between 40 and 55 experience menopause symptoms, such as fatigue, poor sleep, and weight gain.
• 1 in 6 women received a wrong diagnosis, often mistaken for burnout or mental health issues.
• Only 5% of women discuss their symptoms with their employer, despite the impact on their productivity.
• More than half of working women feel more stressed or exhausted, affecting their professional performance.

The Hidden Impact of Misdiagnosed Symptoms

The (peri)menopause is not a temporary phase; it is a hormonal change with significant physical and mental effects. Yet, many women remain unaware of what is happening to them.

Almost a quarter of women keep their experiences to themselves or have no one to talk to. Even when they seek help, their fatigue, concentration issues, or irritability are often mistaken for stress or burnout. The result? Incorrect treatments, unnecessary medication, and most importantly: no real solutions.

The Workplace Impact We Can't Ignore

Although nearly a third of working women say their productivity has been affected by menopause symptoms, the topic remains largely unspoken in the workplace. Only 4% talk to a trusted colleague, and just 2% dare to bring it up with their manager.

The outcome? Women push through, even when they feel drained. They take no steps to alleviate their symptoms simply because they don’t know where to start.

How to Boost Your Energy During Perimenopause?

Many women experience fatigue and concentration issues during perimenopause, which can significantly impact their work performance. However, there are ways to support your energy levels:

• Maintain stable blood sugar levels by eating balanced meals rich in protein and healthy fats.
• Stay active, even when feeling tired. Short walks or light strength training can improve focus and energy.
• Address sleep problems, as poor sleep worsens fatigue and stress. Read more on improving sleep here: Sleep problems and night sweats during perimenopause.
• Prepare for the transition and understand the changes in your body. Find useful tips here: Perimenopause: tips and advice to prepare for menopause.

Time to Break the Silence

Gender equality in the workplace means more than just equal pay and opportunities. It also means recognizing the reality of women’s health. Menopause should not be a reason for women to feel inadequate at work or to suffer in silence.

What can we do?

• Encourage open conversations. Women should feel safe discussing their menopause symptoms without stigma or shame.
• Employers must take action. Education and flexible work arrangements can create a menopause-friendly work environment.
• Improve medical awareness. Misdiagnoses must become a thing of the past, and women need better support during this phase of life.

On this International Women's Day, we call for more openness and recognition of the impact of menopause. Because true gender equality in the workplace starts with acknowledging the unique challenges women face.

It’s time to break the silence. Let’s start the conversation.