EMAS recommendations for conditions in the workplace for menopausal women

Amanda Griffiths,Iuliana Ceausu,Herman Depypere,Irene Lambrinoudaki,Alfred Mueck,Faustino R Pérez-López,Yvonne T Van Der Schouw,Levent M Senturk,Tommaso Simoncini,John C Stevenson,Petra Stute,Margaret Rees

doi:10.1016/j.maturitas.2015.12.005

Abstract

Women form a large part of many workforces throughout Europe. Many will be working throughout their menopausal years. Whilst the menopause may cause no significant problems for some, for others it is known to present considerable difficulties in both their personal and working lives. During the menopausal transition women report that fatigue and difficulties with memory and concentration can have a negative impact on their working lives. Furthermore, hot flushes can be a source of embarrassment and distress. Some consider that these symptoms can impact on their performance. Greater awareness among employers, together with sensitive and flexible management can be helpful for women at this time. Particular strategies might include: fostering a culture whereby employees feel comfortable disclosing health problems, allowing flexible working, reducing sources of work-related stress, providing easy access to cold drinking water and toilets, and reviewing workplace temperature and ventilation.

Highlights

Occupational health issues for older workers in general, and older women workers in particular, have often been ignored
The employment rate for men was just over 70%, and for women, nearly 60%
A longer-term comparison shows that while the employment rate for men in 2014 was below its corresponding level ten years earlier, there was a marked increase in the proportion of women in employment

Summary

Introduction

Occupational health issues for older workers in general, and older women workers in particular, have often been ignored. The employment rate for men was just over 70%, and for women, nearly 60%. A longer-term comparison shows that while the employment rate for men in 2014 was below its corresponding level ten years earlier, there was a marked increase in the proportion of women in employment. Many women in today’s workforces will be working throughout their menopausal years. Women report hot flushes to be a source of embarrassment and distress at work. Some consider that these symptoms can impact on their performance at work [10]. It is suggested that employers might assess working conditions to take into account the needs of menopausal women. Such guidance may be helpful for women themselves, line managers and healthcare practitioners [11]

Recommendations

Allow flexible working arrangements

Findings

Conclusion