An Employer’s Guide to Menopause:
Supporting Women at Work
Posted by Medavie Blue Cross on October 10, 2024
Posted by Medavie Blue Cross on October 10, 2024
Posted by Medavie Blue Cross on October 10, 2024
Perimenopause and menopause can last over ten years, usually between ages 45-55. This is often a key time in many women's careers. With over 40 symptoms of menopause, the most known are hot flashes, night sweats, sleep problems, and brain fog. Lesser known are the chronic conditions that can result from unmanaged symptoms, such as heart disease, diabetes, and dementia.
According to the Menopause Foundation of Canada, 3 in 4 women experience symptoms of menopause that interfere with their daily lives and affect their ability to function. In fact, their research shows that 1 in 10 working women will leave the workplace when their symptoms become too difficult to manage.
World Menopause Month aims to break the stigma and silence that often surrounds the topic.
According to the Menopause Foundation of Canada, 3 in 4 women experience symptoms of menopause that interfere with their daily lives and affect their ability to function. In fact, their research shows that 1 in 10 working women will leave the workplace when their symptoms become too difficult to manage.
World Menopause Month aims to break the stigma and silence that often surrounds the topic.
A 2024 study that Medavie Blue Cross commissioned on women’s health revealed that over half of women (56%) would feel uncomfortable talking to their employer about the effects of menopause. As well, nearly one-third (29%) of employers also feel uncomfortable having the same conversation with their employees.
The study also shows menopause isn’t just a physical transition — it impacts mental and emotional health too. Hormonal changes can cause mood swings, anxiety, and even depression. Our study found that menopause affects the mental health of 1 in 5 (21%) women “a lot or severely.”
Discover how employers can support women through menopause and create a better workplace for all.
The evidence shows a clear need — and opportunity — to support women’s health in the workplace. Here’s what you can do to help:
The evidence shows a clear need — and opportunity — to support women’s health in the workplace. Here’s what you can do to help:
At Medavie Blue Cross, we're on a mission to improve the wellbeing of Canadians.
Visit our Women’s Health page to discover specially designed health solutions that recognize the unique health needs of every woman in every stage of life.