Menopause and work
For centuries menopause has been secret and taboo. However, over the past few years, menopause is going mainstream. And about time too!
50% of the population will experience menopause, with 80% experiencing symptoms. And the other 50% may be impacted, directly or indirectly. Menopause affects women personally and professionally and it can impact on their quality of life.
Menopause in Ireland
Menopause affects females in the 40-60 age group, with 45 being the average age of perimenopause (the lead up to menopause) and 51 being the average age of menopause (when menstruation stops). There are 652,000 menopausal women in Ireland and 420, 000 in paid employment (Census 2022).
- 80% of women experience symptoms with one third experiencing debilitating symptoms.
- There are 40+ symptoms, including emotional, psychological, physical and genitourinary difficulties.
- Symptoms can last on average 7-10 years
- The top symptoms that impact women at work are: Cognitive (76%) like poor concentration or memory, fatigue (63%), anxiety (52%), feeling overwhelmed (48%) and loss of confidence (48%).
How menopause affects women at work
The menopause can impact the daily lives of employees and have a negative impact on their performance and attendance at work. Research carried out by The Menopause Hub in September 2023, with 3044 peri/menopausal women in Ireland found that:
- 84% of respondents were negatively impacted by symptoms at work;
- 38% took time off work due to symptoms;
- 18% took 3+ days off;
- 34% were considering giving up work;
- Up to 10% will leave work due to symptoms.
When these women were asked what they would like from their employers:
- 90% wanted training for HR and managers
- 94% wanted a menopause policy
Ibec members have access to the Fertility and Menopause Connected Knowledge Guide which aims to support employees affected by menopause symptoms in the workplace. Organisations should treat the menopause as they would any other health issue, not only to break the stigma and taboo surrounding the menopause at work, but to create an inclusive environment where employees and managers feel able to discuss what supports if any are required during this time.
Become an accredited menopause workplace today!
Menopause Hub Academy offers Ireland’s first Workplace Excellence Accreditation programme, partnering with businesses and organisations towards workplace menopause awareness, education and equity. By becoming accredited, organisations can lead the way and drive positive change in gender equality, foster employee well-being, retain talent, improve their employer value proposition, minimise legislative risk and increase productivity. This mark of excellence and trust recognises organisations, whether large or small, public or private, for profit or not-for-profit, that actively support and accommodate employees experiencing menopause. It involves implementing policies, educational and training initiatives and workplace adjustments that enhance inclusivity and provide necessary support during this transitional phase in a woman’s life.
There are three simple steps to becoming accredited
- Register with Menopause Hub Academy and make a commitment to menopause workplace excellence.
- Review of application and supporting documents by assessors.
- Upon approval employers will receive a two-year Menopause Workplace Excellence Accreditation with a certificate and digital badge which can be displayed on their website.
Find out more here
Menopause Workplace Excellence Awards
For those employers who are already leading the way, Menopause Hub Academy partners with Great Place to Work to highlight organisations that are creating supportive environments for women experiencing menopause.
Closing dates for the awards is July 31st 2024, with the awards taking place on October 10th, 7pm in Royal College of Physicians, Dublin
Find out more here
Dr Kara McGann, Head of Skills and Social Policy. Ibec
