Dame Sally Davies: First female Chief Medical Officer tackles workplace menopause 'taboo'

Dame Sally Davies has called for and end to the workplace taboo around the menopause

BOSSES must tackle “the last workplace taboo,” the menopause, amid fears women are being forced out of their jobs because employers are ignoring its impact.

 

This is the message from the first female Chief Medical Officer, Professor Dame Sally Davies, who has called on bosses to create a culture where women feel comfortable discussing the menopause in the workplace. 

Government figures have revealed that 10 per cent of women have taken days off work because of menopausal symptoms, including problems with memory and concentration as well as difficulty sleeping. 

But only one in four has discussed their ailments with their manager. 

Dame Sally claims it is “inexcusable” that women who are experiencing menopausal symptoms should feel unable to discuss the matter. 

 



Only one in four women going through the menopause have discussed their health with their employer



She has recommended that the Faculty of Occupational Medicine produces guidelines for employers to provide appropriate support to women during their menopause. 

The menopause affects millions of women a year in different ways

Caroline Dinenage, Minister for Women, Equalities and Family Justice

 

“The menopause is a natural part of life, but it can feel like a great taboo,” she said. 

“It is inexcusable that women experiencing menopausal symptoms should feel unable to discuss how they are feeling at work. 

“I want to encourage managers to ensure working women feel as comfortable discussing menopausal symptoms as they would any other issues affecting them in the workplace. This will help ensure the talent and potential of all women can be realised to the full.” 

Earlier this year Ros Altman, who advises the Government on how to retain over-50s in the workplace, said that while other life-changing events are recognised by businesses, the menopause is still taboo.

 



There were 3.5 million women aged 50 to 65 in employment in 2013



Dr Altman, an expert on pensions and finance, said some women struggling with symptoms of the menopause are perceived to be under-performing and are forced out of their jobs. 

Others, tired of battling on, will chose to leave or go part-time Dr Altman said, as she warned that the menopause was simply “not on the work radar”. 

There were 3.5 million women aged 50 to 65 in employment in 2013. 

With an ageing national workforce, research shows that better understanding by employers could support women with symptoms by helping them to feel more engaged and productive, encouraging them to stay in work. 

Last night Minister for Women, Equalities and Family Justice Caroline Dinenage said: “Employers know women contribute immeasurable value and skill to the workplace, so it is only right that we do all we can to drive positive change so that every woman, of every age, can achieve her full potential.

 

A woman applying a HRT (Hormone Replacement Therapy) patch to her thigh

“The menopause affects millions of women a year in different ways, and it is right that we raise awareness of a subject which is still too often seen as a taboo, so we can continue to give women the support they need, as and when they need it.” 

Dr Heather Currie, a spokesperson for the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists and the British Menopause Society, added: “Every woman experiences the menopause differently. 

“Symptoms such as hot flushes, night sweats, mood swings and depression, as well as a loss of interest in sex, can be extremely debilitating and have a significant impact on a woman’s physical and psychological health, career, social life and relationships. 

“Many women are still suffering in silence. We welcome the Chief Medical Officer’s efforts to ensure employers can offer support and flexibility to women through this time.”