Overview

• Judith Gerlach, Bavaria's Health Minister, has formally urged companies to provide targeted support for women experiencing menopause symptoms.
• She emphasized the importance of retaining experienced female employees, particularly during a skilled-labor shortage, by addressing menopause-related challenges.
• Gerlach proposed workplace health programs focusing on stress management, nutrition, and exercise to mitigate absenteeism and early retirements.
• Common menopause symptoms, such as hot flashes, sleep disturbances, and concentration issues, can impact workplace productivity and lead to unplanned leave.
• In 2023, approximately 1.5 million women aged 45–64, representing 44% of Bavaria's female workforce, were in the typical menopause age range.