A study carried out by The Latte Lounge, the online community for women over 40, revealed that 42% of women considered leaving their job because of the menopause.
The survey in partnership with Fertifa, highlighted the impact of menopause in the workplace and the lack of support from employers.
Katie Taylor, founder of The Latte Lounge believes that there is still a fundamental lack of understanding about what the menopause is and its effects. Especially in the workplace.
She said, “Many people’s understanding of menopause and perimenopause, which is the phase leading up to menopause still tends to be limited to the stereotype of the middle-aged woman having hot flushes. This is not the full picture. Menopause can occur at any age (for one in 100 women under the age of 40), and can last for many years, and it affects non-binary and transgender employees too.
The survey of nearly 500 women also revealed that 84% of women felt that that there is no workplace support or are unsure if it exists. Katie knows first-hand how awkward it can be to talk about menopause symptoms whilst at work – it is one of the main reasons why she quit her career at the age of 43. Feeling that she could not discuss the debilitating symptoms that were affecting her performance and confidence, with her managers.
As we approach World Menopause Day, Katie believes that lessons need to be learned so that future generations can discuss the topic openly and freely within their workspace. “Menopausal women are now the fastest growing demographic in the workplace and the symptoms of menopause (which can last anywhere from 4-10 years) often strike while a woman is in her 40s and 50s in the prime of her career.”
She explained that managers need to be empowered through education and training in how to handle conversations and support team members who are experiencing perimenopause / menopause symptoms. Otherwise, businesses will continue to lose talent from the workplace.
Urchana Moudgil, CEO of employee benefit provider Mór feels that it is fundamental that businesses have a support mechanism in place for employees to seek advice. “The menopause is a natural phase of life that half the population will go through, and it shouldn’t need to be a taboo subject in the workplace. We have seen continued improvements with mental health and pregnancy support over the years, which has been fantastic. We now need to see more businesses providing women with the necessary support to tackle menopause and ensure a positive future for the next generation.”
