Menopause
How experiencing menopause symptoms can affect work
Below is a list of symptoms that may affect work ability, however this list is not exhaustive.
|
Symptom |
Potential Impact |
|
Hot flushes |
Hot flushes can cause embarrassment and distress, individuals may isolate themselves from colleagues. Stressful situations might trigger hot flushes causing individuals to avoid these situations |
|
Sleep disturbance |
Can lead to tiredness and memory problems and reduced concentration. |
|
Heavy and / or erratic periods |
Consideration for individuals who are suffering with heavy menstrual bleeding should also be given. As this can cause embarrassment, some individuals may need to more frequently change sanitary protection requiring breaks to use toilet facilities. |
|
Headaches |
Might cause work impairment, lower productivity and increased sickness absence. |
|
Mood changes (anxiety and depression) |
Can lead to individuals taking more time off sick or going to work when not fit (presenteeism). |
|
Loss of confidence |
Experiencing menopausal symptoms, especially in severe cases can lead to loss of confidence in ability and low self esteem |
|
Cognitive difficulty |
Often termed Menopause Fog, this can affect short term memory, concentration and attention to detail leading to worry about performance and loss of confidence in ability. |