It’s time to think proactively about the Menopause, break the stigma surrounding the topic and educate ourselves.
What is Menopause?
The Menopause, or the “Big M” as it’s sometimes known, is a major transition in a woman’s life. Involving both physical and emotional changes, the word “menopause” is often used inaccurately to describe when a female stops having periods. However the term actually refers to the entire menopausal transition, which can last anywhere from 2 years to 14 years.
At The Peas, we recognise that menopause, despite an entirely natural stage of life, remains a taboo subject in many workplaces. People experiencing menopausal symptoms require the same support and understanding from their employer as anyone experiencing any ongoing health condition, but many employers struggle to know what they can do to help or what the signs are.
We have worked hard to ensure our employees do not experience the isolation and workplace stigma that can so often accompany menopause, and we encourage other employers to do the same. Educating employees and having clear policies and values in place is a great start.
What are the symptoms?
Menopause messes with just about everything from mood swings, brain fog, fatigue, hot flushes, anxiety, fear and a whole lot more. Sometimes the combination of a person’s symptoms can make it hard to function and by being aware of the symptoms, employers can help their employees continue to do their job confidently and effectively.
It doesn’t matter if you are experiencing symptoms now or are yet to start, we take a proactive approach to creating an environment where women feel supported and can come forward with any concerns they may have.
Is there such a thing as Male Menopause?
Yes, it does exist, It’s less widely known but it does have a name. Known as the Andropause, is a real phenomenon that can affect men in their late 40s to early 60s.
Male menopause is different from female menopause in a few ways. For example, not all men experience it. Additionally, it doesn’t involve a complete shutdown of your reproductive organs. However, there are some similarities, such as the hormonal changes that take place.
Symptoms may include hot flushes, mood swings, irritability, lack of enthusiasm, poor concentration, and short-term memory issues. While it’s not as widely recognized as female menopause, it is a real condition that can significantly affect men both physically and mentally.
What is important to know as an employer?
We’re using terms to describe “female” and “male” menopause but it’s important to note that menopause is not only experienced by those who identify as women or men; transgender people, non-binary people and intersex people may also experience menopause symptoms.
We always preach for our clients to create safe, open working environments where employee’s feel they can open up about any issues they may be facing in their personal and working lives. By doing this, you empower your staff to approach any situation in the most transparent way, and you aren’t left scrambling and working reactively after the matter.
If you suspect an employee may be suffering from menopause, allow them to talk about it, and address the situation in a supportive and understanding way. This will help them feel comfortable discussing the issue and potentially seek treatment.
Nothing in place yet? – contact us to discuss bespoke Menopause and Andropause policies and awareness training.