World Menopause Day 2024
This month, on the 18th of October, it’s World Menopause Day. All women will eventually go through menopause at some point in their life, and it can be a significantly challenging time. According to Jean Hailes, emotional and physical symptoms often manifest as hot flushes, mood swings, aches and pains, and more. The severity of those symptoms can vary, but for some women, menopause can be debilitating.
Menopause is not one-size-fits-all. Some women may experience similar symptoms, whereas others may have an entirely different experience. 85% of women are said to experience hot flushes, and around 20% of women may encounter elongated or prolonged symptoms, which may necessitate treatment, The Royal Women’s Hospital says.
But what are these treatments? How does menopause affect mental and physical health? What can workplaces do to make their environments more menopause friendly? Keep reading to learn more…
What Is Menopause
To fully understand how we can support a friend, family member, or colleague, knowing the true definition is essential. According to Better Health Victoria, menopause is when a woman has their final period due to a drop in their hormone levels. As a result, ovulation and periods halt permanently. Other times, menopause may be induced due to cancer treatments or surgery.
Here is a simple breakdown of what women may expect:
- The average age women in Australia reach menopause is 51
- Some women may experience early menopause, which occurs before 45
- Similarly, some women may undergo the change before 40 – which is called premature menopause
- Some women may experience menopausal symptoms before going through their bodily changes, and this is called perimenopause
Menopause Symptoms & What to Expect
There are many symptoms associated with menopause. Better Health Victoria says both physical and mental health symptoms may include:
- Sweating in the night
- Hot flushes
- Aches and pains throughout the body
- Sore breasts
- Fluctuations in mood
- Tiredness
- Difficulties concentrating
- Anxiety
Types of Treatments for Menopausal Symptoms
There are many treatments on the market for women who may need medical support with their menopausal symptoms. Many symptoms women experience can be moderate to severe and, for the latter, drastically impact their daily lives. In this case, prescribing a treatment might be necessary. These medications and natural treatments, according to the Australasian Menopause Society, can include:
- Menopausal Hormone Therapy (MHT)
- Antidepressants
- Lifestyle changes
- Natural and talk therapy
What is Menopausal Hormone Therapy
MHT, otherwise known as Hormone Replacement Therapy, is one of the main treatments for menopause symptoms. The Australasian Menopause Society describes it as one of the most effective menopausal treatments that can be prescribed as pills, patches, or creams. It’s designed to regulate hormone levels and alleviate symptoms, as well as offer other possible health benefits, such as improving bone density and reducing the chances of heart disease and diabetes for some women.
Risks & Side Effects of MHT & Removing the Stigma
Like most medications, Better Heath Victoria says there are some risks and side effects associated with this treatment. It is important to understand these risks and ask relevant questions to address any concerns.
It is also important to note that early studies that reported increases in risk of stroke and breast cancer associated with MHT have since been reevaluated and revised, with further studies indicating no increased risk with certain treatments prescribed. However, a conversation with your GP is highly recommended to ensure MHT is right for you. They may suggest alternative treatments if necessary.
Supporting Women In The Workplace
Although 51 is the average age women go through menopause, many women aged between 45 and 55 can still experience moderate to severe symptoms. A 2021 study found that 83% of women experiencing menopause were affected at work, but only 70% would feel comfortable speaking with their manager about it. Currently, women comprise around 48% of the total Aussie workforce, according to AIFS. So, what more can be done to support women going through menopause in the workplace? According to the Australian Menopause Society, employers should:
- Increase and improve understanding
- Make information and resources available ubiquitously
- Prioritise health and wellbeing
- Remove stigmas, prejudice, and discrimination
- Create mandatory policies and training
- Enable leave policies and access to healthcare
- Train managers to understand the sensitivity and how to converse about menopause
Get the Support You Need from Converge!
Your wellbeing matters to us, and we know the heavy toll that menopausal symptoms can have on your mental and physical health. If you need help or someone to talk to who understands what you’re going through, get in touch! Ask your HR team if we’re your EAP, and if so, our expert consultants are here day and night – anytime, anywhere. Visit our website or download the Converge App to book an appointment.
