Research has revealed that menopause remains a hidden and taboo subject in the workplace.

The study, ‘Menopause in the workplace’, is based on surveys of public sector workers in Ireland and was carried out by academics at the University of Galway and University College Cork.

The research was carried out to explore:

  • Women's experiences of menopause at work
  • The attitudes of other workers who are not experiencing menopause
  • The impact of menopause on work outcomes for women
  • What interventions would support women

Almost 1,000 people (including 835 women and 151 men) from five public sector organisations in Ireland completed an online survey.

Maeve O’Sullivan, College of Business Public Policy & Law at University of Galway, said, "Despite high rates of women in employment and government focus on keeping people in work for longer, menopause remains a taboo subject in many organisations and a significant barrier to employee wellbeing and productivity.

“But menopause is not just a gender or age issue, as it can impact on colleagues both directly or indirectly, and it should therefore be considered an organisational issue.”

Some of the key findings include:

  • 68 per cent of people stated that menopause was not spoken about in their workplace
  • Eight per cent said it was a 'taboo' subject
  • 75 per cent didn't know if their company had a menopause policy
  • 29 per cent of line managers whose direct reports have spoken to them about menopause do not feel equipped to discuss menopause and offer support
  • 70 per cent stated that organisations should adjust the physical work environment for those going through menopause
  • 82 per cent state that organisations should provide training for line managers and supervisors on how to support those going through menopause
  • 62 per cent of menopausal employees have discussed their menopause with their co-workers, while only one in 12 (12 per cent) have spoken to their manager about it
  • 65 per cent of menopausal respondents did not intend to apply for promotion, and menopausal employees are less likely to apply, compared with pre-menopausal employees
  • 96 per cent of menopausal respondents reported physical and mental exhaustion to be the most common and most severe symptom experienced

Maeve added, “Our study's findings demonstrate the urgent need to tackle this taboo and better equip organisations and managers to facilitate greater job satisfaction and wellbeing among female employees. Menopause is not simply a female issue."

Elaine O'Brien, University College Cork, said, "Despite menopause now being openly discussed in today's society, there is very little focus on its impact on work and vice versa.

“Our study shines a light on this taboo topic and recommends key workplace interventions to improve menopausal employees' wellbeing and boost organisational productivity."

The recommendations include:

  • Training and education programmes should be targeted at line managers, HR personnel and employees
  • Female workers should be offered greater flexibility when going through menopausal transition
  • Provide access to specialist menopause consultants and health coaching
  • Implement interventions that help alleviate exhaustion

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