Everything You Should Know About Menopause in the Workplace

Experienced by a large number of the population and workforce, menopause can impact a life heavily. To help manage and cope with the symptoms, read on to find out how your workplace should be supporting you, and what to do if they aren’t.

What is menopause?

For those who experience menstrual periods, menopause is the natural end to their appearance. The process usually happens during middle age but can occur earlier because of select medical conditions.

The symptoms of menopause can affect both our bodies and our brains, having a large impact on our day-to-day lives. While not everyone experiences symptoms, those who do may struggle with their impact on aspects of a normal life, from their activities to relationships. Mood changes are commonly experienced, alongside hot flashes and trouble sleeping. 

Menopause can bring stigma, making those who experience it feel uncomfortable sharing what they’re feeling or going through. There is nothing shameful about menopause, and discussing what you’re going through can be a great way to reassure yourself of this. 

Managing Menopause at Work

Due to its changing and overwhelming symptoms, menopause can be difficult to experience when at work. Many people experiencing menopause might find it uncomfortable to wear restrictive uniforms because of hot flushes, as well as struggling to remember important information because of brain fog. 

Speaking to your management team can be an incredibly helpful way to cope with the symptoms you’re experiencing in the workplace. They should be able to make reasonable adjustments for you to help manage your symptoms alongside you, including incorporating flexible working and offering you a fan for your workspace.

Workplace Discrimination

Your employer should be supporting you through the process of menopause, as it is their responsibility to ensure the health and wellbeing of their employees is maintained. If they are not, this could be a form of workplace discrimination. This further includes any mistreatment inflicted solely because of menopausal symptoms, such as rude and offensive jokes or a lack of inclusion for potential promotions. 

Unfortunately, there have been some scenarios where employers have chosen to dismiss employees because of their menopausal symptoms. This is a form of workplace discrimination, as it is something that cannot be changed or helped by the employee, and may be tied to age, identity or sex. No one should be treated less favourably because of any of these characteristics, and a firing because of this situation could be an unfair dismissal, which can be fought. 

How We Can Help

If you believe you are being discriminated against or mistreated because of menopause, get in touch with our team at DJP Solicitors. We can help you obtain the justice you deserve through employment law claims, with the full support of our friendly team. Our services are offered across Scotland, so don’t hesitate to reach out for advice and support. 

Visit our website to learn more about us and what we do, or contact us today for further support.