Perimenopause is a transitional phase in a woman’s life that occurs when the body begins to transition towards menopause. This can happen at any point in a woman’s life, but it typically occurs in her late 40s or early 50s. During perimenopause, the ovaries begin to produce less estrogen, leading to a range of symptoms that can last for several years. These symptoms can include hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings, fatigue, insomnia, and more.
Perimenopause can affect women of all ages and backgrounds, including those with medical conditions that may not seem like the stereotypical person affected by menopause. For example, women who have had a hysterectomy or who have undergone cancer treatment may experience perimenopause at a younger age or more severe symptoms than other women.
As an employer, it is important to be aware of the signs of perimenopause in your employees. While some women may feel comfortable discussing their symptoms with their employer, others may not. Therefore, it is vital to create a supportive and inclusive workplace where employees feel safe discussing their symptoms and receiving the support they need. One way to potentially do this is to offer flexible working hours or remote work options, which can help employees manage their symptoms and reduce stress levels. Additionally, providing access to counselling services can help employees cope with the emotional challenges of perimenopause.
It is also important to recognise that perimenopause does not just affect cisgender women. Transgender men and non-binary people can also experience perimenopause symptoms due to hormone therapy or other medical conditions. Employers should be mindful of the unique challenges faced by LGBTQ employees and ensure that their policies and practices are inclusive and supportive.
Partners of people going through perimenopause can also experience challenges. They may need to provide additional support to their loved one during this time, such as helping with household tasks or providing emotional support. Employers can support partners by offering flexible working arrangements or counselling services.
If you suspect an employee may be experiencing perimenopause symptoms, it is important to refer them to an occupational health professional. The occupational health assessment can provide insight for an employer with advice on how to manage symptoms and offer recommendations for workplace accommodations, such as providing a cooler working environment or allowing for more frequent breaks.
Perimenopause is a complex issue that can affect employees in a range of ways. Employers need to ensure a supportive and inclusive workplace where employees feel comfortable discussing their symptoms and receiving the support they need.
If you have any questions or concerns about how to support your employees who may be going through perimenopause, please do not hesitate to contact our employment team at employment@glaisyers.com. We are here to help you navigate this issue and ensure that you create a supportive and inclusive workplace for all.
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