Menopause. How often are you talking to your employees about it?
If the answer is ‘never’, then you’re probably not alone. However, actively supporting any employees going through the menopause is becoming increasingly important for employers to consider.
What is menopause?
The menopause is a natural stage in life when a person’s periods permanently stop. The typical age range for menopause is usually between 40 and 60, and the average age at which a person reaches menopause is 51. On average, symptoms last for four years but can continue for up to 12 years. Some people might experience menopause earlier or go through surgical menopause. According to Acas, employers need to be aware of the fact that menopause and its symptoms can affect any of their employees.
This extends to:
- Those personally going through the menopause
- Relatives, colleagues and carers of those going through the menopause
- Trans people
- Intersex people
What are the most common symptoms of menopause?
Menopause affects every individual differently. Some may have no symptoms at all, or they might be brief and short-lived. For others, they can be severe and distressing.
Examples of the symptoms can include:
- Hot flushes and night sweats
- Feeling the heart racing and palpitations
- Difficulty sleeping
- Changes in mood, such as feeling tired, irritable, depressed or anxious
- Difficulty concentrating
- Poor memory
- Urinary problems, such as recurrent urinary tract infections and loss of bladder control
