Menopause & international workplaces: a guide for businesses


July 2023
 

Menopause is a natural phase of life that can bring various physical and emotional changes. As global companies support their employees around the world, it is crucial to address the unique challenges faced by employees dealing with menopause. 

 

In this blog post, we’ll explore the impact that menopause can have on employees in global organisations and provide actionable strategies for HR departments to support their workforce. 

Menopause can present in many different types of ways – it all depends on the person. As a HR team member or leader in the workplace, it’s your responsibility to become familiar with common symptoms and signs and learn how to best support individuals dealing with them at work. These can include:

  • Hot flashes and night sweats
  • Mood swings
  • Changes in skin, hair and nails, such as dryness or increased oiliness and acne
  • Difficulties with concentration and brain fog
  • Headaches and migraines
  • Difficulty sleeping

What’s more, in an international workplace, your team may face varying cultural and social factors when it comes to menopause. For example, employees from different regions may have distinct beliefs, taboos, or practices related to menopause. It’s important to find an approach that works for all teams, offering support and guidance while avoiding any offence. These kinds of considerations can all contribute to helping those going through menopause who might be struggling at work.  

The first step for leadership teams should be to remove the stigma around menopause and educate the workforce on how this transitional period works. Provide educational resources, workshops, or webinars to help employees understand the physical and emotional changes associated with menopause and how they may be able to help.  
Remote or hybrid work options and flexible schedules can be a great asset to those dealing with menopause. The flexibility to rest and attend medical appointments while keeping up with their work is a great way to show support to workers experiencing menopause. 
As well as educational resources, it’s important to follow through with menopausal supports by implementing wellbeing initiatives. Tutorials and resources on stress management, nutrition, and exercise are beneficial to all employees, but especially to women going through menopause. It is also advisable to provide access to counselling services or Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) to help employees cope with the emotional effects of the menopause. Providing a supportive, confidential environment for employees to seek guidance is crucial. 
Speak to your employees dealing with menopause, and understand what reasonable workplace accommodations might go a long way in helping them day-to-day. Things like ergonomic equipment, temporary workload modifications, or temperature control in the office are all small changes that could make a big difference to quality of life at work. 
The last and perhaps the most important factor is developing a comprehensive menopause policy that outlines the organisation's commitment to supporting employees during this life stage. Ensure that the policy addresses the specific needs of international employees, taking into account cultural sensitivities and local legal requirements, and that it acts as a supportive and empathetic resource for employees. 
Addressing menopause in the international workplace is crucial for creating an inclusive environment for employees. By understanding the impact of menopause and implementing strategies tailored to their unique needs, organisations can enhance employee wellbeing, engagement, and overall job satisfaction. With Allianz Partners, businesses have a trusted partner to help to protect their employees while they thrive internationally. To find out more about our options for businesses, check out our Employer Support Centre.