Last week we celebrated Women’s Health Week, a reminder for all women and girls to make their health and wellbeing a priority.
In support of Women’s Health Week, the September edition of Converge International’s Flourish eMagazine has shone the spotlight on the importance of workplaces supporting women through menopause.
While every woman’s health experience is different, menopause is one part that is shared and can often impact day-to-day life. It is important to remember it is a healthy part of aging.
To be able to support women during this transition, managers and colleagues should understand more about the changes women experience during this time.
Through creating a healthy and supportive workplace it allows the employee to feel comfortable expressing any difficulties they may be experiencing. This leads to increased productivity and greater team engagement from all employees.
There are some common symptoms women experience during menopause and many ways workplaces can offer support.
- Hot flushes – having a well-ventilated work area with access to a fan can help. Consider altering some physical tasks to ensure employee’s comfort and safety.
- Fatigue and low energy – offer flexible working arrangements. Demonstrate empathy and understanding if an employee needs time to rest.
- Low concentration – accommodate changes to memory and attention span. Sometimes it can help to write down information or send a follow up email after a phone call.
- Changing moods- make time to listen to and empathise with how employees are feeling.
- Urological symptoms – this may include reduced bladder control. By increasing awareness and understanding of this issue, women can feel supported.
For more information on supporting women through menopause visit the Jean Hailes website.
For additional resources on health and wellbeing, visit the Monash Health COVID-19 employee website.
Approved by Karen Lowe.