The Impact of Menopause on Women’s Health: A Workplace Initiative

An estimated 6,000 women in the United States reach menopause daily, with 51 being the average age. For many individuals, the hormonal changes that take place during the menopause transition are associated with physical and psychological symptoms such as irregular menstrual cycles, hot flashes, vaginal dryness, mood fluctuations, sleep disruptions, and cognitive challenges. These highly variable symptoms are commonly misdiagnosed, resulting in inappropriate management and disruption of day-to- day activities. With approximately 44% of women in the workforce being older than 45, menopause symptoms have been reported to affect up to 20% of the US workforce. With approximately 44% of women in the workforce being older than 45, increases in retirement age and life expectancy are putting a demand on workplace settings to recognize the impact of menopause on women’s health. Menopause is a life stage that all women of a certain age will experience, and their impact on society has significant and far-reaching economic, social, and health care implications. Recruiting and retaining midlife and senior women in their careers is key to maintaining a diverse and sustainable intergenerational workforce.

SWHR is convening an interdisciplinary Menopause Workplace Education Working Group of menopause and workplace wellness researchers and strategists, human resource professionals, advocacy leaders, and health care providers for a series of closed meetings throughout 2023. During these meetings, the Working Group will discuss the impact of menopause on women’s health, with a special emphasis on addressing challenges women encounter while they are adjusting to menopause and midlife aging in diverse working environments.