Hot flashes may be the go-to symbol of menopause, but they are far from the only symptom women suffer from when going through this transition. Without proper support, dealing with these challenges in the workplace can make the situation even harder.
The good news is that there are steps women can take to get the assistance they need during this trying time of life.
At Avery Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, in Westport, Fairfield, and Norwalk, Connecticut, our caring board-certified physicians provide a wide variety of obstetrical and gynecological care through all stages of a woman's life. From well-woman exams and specific concerns to pregnancy, delivery, and menopause, we partner with our patients to address their issues and form a long-lasting relationship.
Perimenopause, the transitional period before menopause, can begin for some women as early as age 35, while menopause itself typically happens between 45 and 55 years of age.
Symptoms vary from woman to woman but often include irregular periods, hot flashes, night sweats, and sleep problems. Mood changes, brain fog, and memory issues can also occur. Many of these can make performing your best at work a challenge.
Over one million people in the United States enter menopause each year. Of these women, two out of five have contemplated looking for or taken a new job due to their menopause symptoms. However, it doesn't have to be that way.
Women — and their employers — can take the following steps to feel more comfortable at work, take fewer sick days, and be happier and more productive overall.
Bring or buy a healthy lunch and be sure to stay hydrated. Wear layers of clothing to help manage hot flashes and keep a portable fan nearby. Focus on breathing if you get stressed.
If menopause symptoms are causing you problems at work, a medical professional can help. Whether it's advising you on lifestyle habits and relaxation or prescribing hormone replacement therapy, you don't have to struggle alone.
Document your symptoms, how they affect you and your job performance, and what you're doing to cope.
Check if your employer already has a menopause policy and, if not, investigate the company's current policies on sick leave, disability, and flexible work. If you're suffering from anxiety or another mental health issue, see if they offer a counseling service. Your company's human resources department can likely help.
Set a time on the calendar to discuss this issue with your boss. This step indicates it’s a serious topic and provides a block of time and privacy.
Be prepared to educate them if they don't know much about menopause, and to be patient as they may need time to learn more and consider potential solutions.
Think about how to approach the conversation and consider role-playing if that would make you more comfortable. Anticipate possible reactions and plan for them.
While it may feel awkward, describe your symptoms and how each affects your work performance. Examples could include poor sleep impacting your concentration and hot flashes causing anxiety in meetings.
Think about what your company could do to help and be ready to offer solutions, like working from home when needed, sitting near an air conditioning unit, and others. Schedule a follow-up to provide an update and tweak any aspects as necessary.
Share what you're going through and its effect on you and your work. Be prepared to educate if they don't know much about menopause. Consider if you're more comfortable talking to them one-on-one or in a small group.
Tell them you appreciate them letting you share and taking the time to learn more. If they have been helping pick up the slack, convey your appreciation.
If you're struggling with menopause symptoms that are impacting your daily life, we can provide the personalized support you need. Click to book an appointment or call one of our offices today.
