Raising awareness of the menopause and the support options available to help improve the health and wellbeing of women dealing with its symptoms, is crucial.
Menopause usually occurs between the ages of 45 and 55 years of age and its symptoms, including tiredness, poor concentration, insomnia, low confidence and hot flushes, can last between four and eight years.
IMM Medical Director Dr Louise Slaney, said: “Despite huge strides being taken with the awareness of menopause, it remains a taboo subject that can often be brushed aside, particularly in the workplace.
“Is part of that reticence to take menopause and its potential effects seriously down to it being seen as a normal life event affecting so many rather than as a ‘condition’ or ‘illness’? Quite possibly.
“But the truth is menopause can be debilitating and can severely impact women at work. With women representing half of the UK labour force, that is not something employers can afford to ignore.
“Without effective help, support and understanding, women can feel disengaged at work and experience feelings of being unable to cope, which can lead to many choosing to quit employment.
“It is vital that employers instil a culture that enables women to ask for help and have supportive policies in place.
“Implementing an occupational health policy that includes clear guidance and best practice for the management of menopause in the workplace is vital to maintaining engagement, productivity, happiness and wellbeing among affected women, which is of benefit to all involved.”
