Menopause

What is female menopause?

The menopause is a natural stage of life when a female’s oestrogen levels decline and she stops having periods. As menopausal symptoms are typically experienced for several years, it is best described as a ‘transition’ rather than a one-off event. The transition to menopause is referred to as perimenopause. 

It should be recognised that the experience will vary significantly for each individual. The menopause usually occurs between 45 - 55 years of age, with the average age in the UK being 51 years. More information about the menopause, symptoms and treatment can be found on the NHS website (external link). 

Menopause before 40 years of age is known as premature ovarian insufficiency (POI). Surgical and medical conditions, such as a hysterectomy, fertility treatment, endometriosis and hormone therapy as part of someone’s transition to a true gender can also bring about menopause symptoms. 

Anyone with female anatomy can experience menopause regardless of gender or gender identity. While all women experience the menopause, they are not the only ones affected. Managers need to be aware that employees from the non-binary, transgender and intersex communities may also experience menopausal symptoms. Due to a variety of factors, the experience of the menopause may be different for those within these communities. Experiences and perceptions of the menopause may also differ in relation to disability, age, race, religion, sexual orientation or marital/civil partnership status. It is important to recognise that for many reasons; peoples’ individual experiences of the menopause may differ greatly.

It is also important to remember that partners/civil partners or spouses (regardless of gender) may need support while their partner is menopausal.