Menopause: Its Impact On Workplace Culture And The Need For Open Discussion

Menopause, though a natural life stage, remains a challenging transition for many women. For years, menopause has been a hushed topic in workplaces, yet it impacts a significant portion of the workforce. With women typically experiencing menopause between the ages of 45 and 55, many are at the peak of their professional lives. Navigating symptoms like hot flashes, brain fog, and mood swings while striving to maintain professional composure is a challenge that deserves attention.

In recent times, conversations about menopause have started to gain traction in professional settings.

Need for awareness

Many women fear being perceived as less capable or unreliable due to symptoms. As a result, they may avoid seeking accommodations or discussing their struggles. Avantii Deshpande, Clinical & Sports Nutritionist, highlights, “Navigating perimenopause can be planned strategically. It should be a holistic approach rather than just managing a particular aspect. A better understanding of menopause and its impact on health is vital, which is why it’s important to generate awareness about the topic from authentic sources. This is especially a need of the hour for working women who need to do a balancing act with efficiency. Women need to be educated way ahead of perimenopause about changes that happen in the body, understanding real symptoms as against false alarms, making sure the woman is well aware of the holistic healing approach, and providing coping mechanisms.”

Open conversations about menopause are crucial for dismantling stereotypes and normalising the experience. This dialogue fosters an inclusive workplace culture where women feel empowered to share their needs without fear of judgment.

Dr. Mitali Rathod, M.S Obstetrician & Gynaecologist shares, 'Reproductive age group women when they cross their mid 30s, perimenopause begins, followed by menopause. While perimenopausal symptoms can vary in terms of irregular cycles, mood swings, spotting, fatigue, menopausal symptoms manifest in the form of hot flashes and brain fog, but with correct strategies and support, it can be managed. Taking frequent breaks and relaxing helps you unwind—small breaks won’t hurt anyone. Staying hydrated is crucial, aim for at least 2-3 liters of water intake each day, and you can include infused waters rich in electrolytes that help combat hot flushes and dehydration. A balanced diet is key; meals should be rich in fiber and protein, paired with complex carbs like roti or rice, while avoiding too much caffeine, alcohol, smoking, refined flour, sugary or baked goods. Dressing in layers, especially in cotton-based breathable fabrics, helps manage discomfort, and changing clothes if necessary can provide relief. Practicing mindful meditation or breathing exercises like Wim Hoff’s method can aid in relaxation. Regular exercises like strength training, bodyweight workouts, yin yoga, vinyasa flow, or gym-based workouts can keep the body active and strong. For hot flushes, keeping a portable fan or staying near an AC helps, and consuming a diet rich in phytoestrogens can ease the symptoms. To address mood changes, it’s important to identify triggers and engage in practices like journaling or therapy. Using lists and reminders at work can help manage brain fog. Communicating your symptoms and condition with colleagues or seniors can create a supportive environment—don’t shy away from asking for help. At the workplace, it’s important to foster an inclusive culture and educate staff about menopausal symptoms and the importance of work-life balance. Advocating for flexible work hours or work-from-home options if necessary, offering access to cooling devices, and encouraging open communication can greatly support individuals going through this phase.

Impact on work culture

Menopause is not just a personal health matter; it’s a workplace issue. Employees facing symptoms may struggle with productivity, attendance, and mental well-being. Ignoring these challenges can lead to talent loss, burnout, and reduced team morale. As Dr Gandhali Deorukhkar, Consultant – Obstetrics and Gynaecology, notes, “For many working women, menopause is a tough time because they tend to clash with some job requirements due to their symptoms such as mood swings and hot flashes. Breaking the stigma surrounding menopause requires an open, honest conversation and, most importantly, building an understanding workplace. An employer can make a world of difference by implementing supportive policies like flexible work hours, wellness programs, and easy access to healthcare. This helps women keep healthy, increases productivity, and retains employees at the workplace.”

A menopause-friendly work culture benefits everyone. Offering flexible schedules, access to wellness programs, and designated wellness spaces can help women manage symptoms without compromising their careers. For example, companies like Channel 4 in the UK have introduced menopause policies, including paid leave for severe symptoms, menopause awareness training for managers, and quiet rooms for relaxation.

Navigating menopause at work

Navigating menopause in the workplace begins with individual and collective efforts:

Open communication: Women can pave the way by sharing their experiences with trusted colleagues or HR representatives by initiating dialogue and adjustments in workload.

Self-Care: Prioritise hydration, regular breaks, and stress-reducing techniques to maintain energy and focus at work.

Create a supportive environment: Foster understanding and empathy in the workplace to ensure a comfortable atmosphere.

As Archana Khosla Burman, Entrepreneur, shares, “Menopause is a natural transition, and addressing the problems that women face during menopause in the workplace is crucial for developing an environment that is inclusive and understanding. By fostering open conversations and implementing supportive workplace policies—like flexible schedules, access to health resources and awareness training—organizations can create a culture where women feel seen, heard, and supported. A menopause-friendly workplace isn’t just about accommodations; it’s about respect and understanding. Creating a menopause-friendly workplace should be the basic necessity to a company's commitment in building workplaces where women can excel and enhance their overall productivity and morale”

Why does this conversation matter?

Addressing menopause in the workplace sends a powerful message: that employees are valued at every stage of life. It bridges the gap between personal well-being and professional growth, fostering loyalty and reducing attrition.

Moreover, openly discussing menopause helps challenge ageism and sexism in the workplace. It reframes menopause as a natural phase of life rather than a limitation, allowing women to thrive personally and professionally.

As Aarti Singh, Senior HR Manager, emphasises, “Supporting employees through menopause is essential for fostering an inclusive and empathetic workplace. Menopause can impact productivity, confidence, and well-being, yet it’s often overlooked. Open conversations about menopause break stigmas and demonstrate that we value employees at every stage of their lives. This not only enhances morale but also strengthens organizational culture and employee retention.”

Call to action

Menopause is a shared journey, and workplaces that choose to navigate it together stand to gain a stronger, more cohesive culture. Let’s open the door to these conversations and make the workplace truly welcoming for all.