Menopause benefits: Small accommodations can bring big relief

Key insight: See why low-lift, day-to-day workplace adjustments for menopausal employees can make them more comfortable at work.
Expert quote: "My big mission is to encourage employers to ask employees what they need..." — Lauren Tetenbaum, LCSW
Supporting data: Nearly 1 in 7 women lose a specific amount of weekly productivity.

Benefits and accommodations for managing perimenopause and menopause are becoming more common in the workplace. Dedicated health platforms, access to specialists, education and flexible schedules can all make a big difference, but so do the smaller, day-to-day ways employers show their support. 

Warmer months can be especially challenging for women navigating menopause symptoms, said Dr. Nicole Doghor, a reproductive psychiatrist at Texas Children's Pavilion for Women, in an article published by the healthcare facility. She recommends women stay hydrated and use fans to help tone down discomfort — things that employers, to some extent, can make more accessible during work hours. 

"Summer can amplify menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes, fatigue and disrupted sleep, making simple workplace adjustments especially valuable," said Kim Hart, president and co-founder of Midovia, which provides employers with training, resources and a "Menopause Friendly" accreditation program. "Ensuring access to cool workspaces, fans, cold drinks, flexible breaks and clear communication about available health and well-being benefits are practical, low-cost ways employers can support employees. Small accommodations send a powerful message that employee well-being is valued." 

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These efforts can improve things on the business side, as well: Nine in 10 women reported at least one of their menopause symptoms had directly impacted their productivity within the last 12 months, and nearly one in seven lose more than 10 hours of productivity per week, according to a survey by telehealth clinic platform Hone Health. 

Lauren Tetenbaum, LCSW, a New York-based licensed psychotherapist and Menopause Society Certified Practitioner, echoed low-lift workplace accommodations like cold drinks and fans, adding that if uniforms are part of a job requirement, modifications should be allowed if they become uncomfortable due to symptoms. She also noted the importance of providing feminine products such as tampons and pads in work restrooms, as women, especially during perimenopause, may still need them. Apart from basics like these, the best way to provide meaningful accommodations is to get employees' feedback. 

"My big mission is to encourage employers to ask what employees need, and not just say, 'Oh, I read about this, let me provide it,' because it could be off target," Tetenbaum said. "Start with a survey, because they might want certain things that maybe you haven't thought of, or that you were planning on offering but don't match up. [Ask,] 'What would be most helpful?' or 'What do you think would benefit the office most?'"

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Steps to make women going through perimenopause and menopause more comfortable in the workplace, especially when coupled with communication, education, and health and wellness support, are something employers should prioritize, Tetenbaum said. 

"If you're a woman in your 40s or 50s, you will probably have some symptoms, and you should be able to just live your life and get the help you need without making it a big deal," she said.  "We need to normalize it and just make it part of everyday conversation. The more that we do that, the more it is accepted."

This is part two of a series on menopause support in the workplace. 
Read part one: Women — and men — want menopause acknowledged at work