Two-thirds (67%) of women reported that menopause symptoms have had a negative impact on their work, according to research by reproductive health benefits provider Fertifa.
Its Future of workplace wellbeing report found that two-fifths (39%) of respondents reported a negative impact on their performance at work, which included an impact on productivity, focus and concentration.
Nearly half (48%) of respondents said that menopause symptoms had a negative impact on their wellbeing at work, and reported stress, anxiety and a loss of confidence.
One in five took unexpected and unplanned time off work to help manage their menopause symptoms.
The research also found that over half (55%) of women receive no menopause support from their employer, and that nearly one-third (27%) of those without access have left, or considered leaving, their job.
Almost a third (29%) of women said a fear of stigma or discrimination prevented them from seeking the support they need. A futher 61% reported that they did not feel comfortable discussing the menopause with their manager.
Charlotte Cassis, obstetrician and gynaecologist who worked on the report, said: “It’s valuable to note that cognitive and mental symptoms are reported almost as frequently as physical ones (82% and 89% respectively). The fact that 70% reported that their symptoms negatively impacted on their work means we cannot afford to continue to ignore this. We can see that some people are receiving support from their workplace, but this remains a minority and a huge area for development and improvement.”
Gidon Lieberman, medical director of Fertifa, added: “Menopause patients should not feel like they can’t speak to their employer about taking time off work for menopause-related issues. We need to do more to normalise talking openly about menopause to enable people to get the support they evidently need.”
