MPs are calling for the Government to introduce workplace policies to protect women who are experiencing the menopause.
A significant number of women experiencing the menopause have seen their careers ruined by symptoms such as anxiety, confusion and a loss of confidence. Some female employees have even faced disciplinary action, been forced to take time off work, and have had to stop work entirely because of the condition.
Around 80 per cent of women will experience some symptoms of the menopause, brought about when ovulation stops as a result of hormone levels dropping.
One in four of those women will have severe symptoms, including anxiety and depression, which can lead to them being diagnosed with mental health problems and prescribed medication.
Dr Jane Woyka, Principal GP at Harrow Health Care Centre, said: “This an important step. MPs are now urging the Government to introduce workplace policies to protect women who are experiencing the menopause.
“With more than 80 per cent of women experiencing some symptoms of menopause, this is a long-overdue development, and we look forward to seeing action being taken to protect women in the workplace.”
A survey of more than 1,100 women conducted by health experts found that 94 per cent of women felt their work had suffered as a result of symptoms, with more than half (53 per cent) saying colleagues had noticed a deterioration in their performance.
Just over half of respondents had taken time off sick, and one in 10 had missed more than eight weeks of work.
More than one-third of those women involved in the survey said their employers did not offer any kind of discussion group, awareness session or training on the subject of menopause, despite the fact there are more than five million working women aged 45-60 in the UK.
The number of women at work in their 50’s has risen significantly in recent years, with a landmark case in which Mandy Davies was sacked by the Scottish Courts and Tribunal Service (SCTS) expected to increase awareness of menopause in the workplace.
MP Carolyn Harris, said: “You wouldn’t dream of having a workplace where people weren’t entitled to certain things because they were pregnant, and it’s exactly the same for women with the menopause.
“I firmly believe there should be legislation to make sure every workplace has a menopause policy, just like they have a maternity policy.”
Harrow Health Care
At Harrow Health Care, we know that menopause management is always changing. Dr Jane Woyka is a GP and Menopause Specialist, who runs the London Menopause Clinic at Harrow Health Care Centre, as well as being a GP Associate Specialist at Northwick Park’s Clinical & Research Menopause Clinic one morning every week.
Jane’s approach is to assess individual risk and benefit according to each patient’s personal and family medical history in relation to their symptoms and quality of life.
For more information on our Menopause Care, contact us today.
