Menopause’s Impact on Work, Health, and Awareness Gains Attention

A growing conversation highlights the wide-ranging symptoms of menopause and the need for workplace support and improved healthcare access.

Menopause symptoms, including brain fog, insomnia, and anxiety, can significantly affect work performance and daily life, yet many women face stigma and suffer in silence.
Perimenopause, the transitional phase leading to menopause, can begin earlier than expected and involves diverse symptoms beyond hot flashes, such as memory issues and mood swings.
Workplace accommodations, like flexible hours and support groups, are shown to help employees manage symptoms and maintain productivity, but only 5% of U.S. employers currently offer such benefits.
New research suggests a link between severe menopause symptoms and long-term cognitive challenges, including memory and learning difficulties, potentially increasing dementia risk.
Experts advocate for broader awareness, access to specialized healthcare, and open discussions to reduce stigma and empower women to seek effective treatments, such as hormone therapy or lifestyle changes.