Revolutionizing Workplace Inclusivity: New Research on Menopause and Work

In a partnership between SRI International and Lisa Health, a recent study has uncovered crucial insights into the challenges and needs of menopausal women in the workforce. This collaboration shines a spotlight on an often overlooked aspect of workplace inclusivity, shedding light on the impact of menopause on women’s careers and well-being.

The Study

This research aimed to delve more deeply into the experiences of menopausal women in work settings. A cross-sectional survey was conducted, involving 351 working women aged 40 to 65 years across the United States.

Key Findings

The findings from this study paint a vivid picture of the realities faced by menopausal women in today’s workforce:

• 😓 Symptom Severity: A majority of respondents (74%) reported experiencing moderate to severe menopausal symptoms, affecting their daily work lives.
• 👩‍👧‍👦 Caregiving Challenges: 54% of these women also balance the demands of caregiving for children or adults alongside their work responsibilities.
• 📉 Impact on Work: Menopausal symptoms were found to affect work-related aspects significantly, predict higher levels of emotional exhaustion, and lower work engagement. Additionally, they were associated with increased intentions of women to leave their jobs.
• 🚫 Perceived Capability: More than half (51%) expressed concerns about being viewed as less capable in the workplace due to their menopausal symptoms.
• 📊 Implementation Gap: There exists a notable gap between the desired workplace measures, such as formal menopause policies, managerial training, and digital solutions, and their actual implementation.

Implication For Change

The results of this study have far-reaching implications for workplace policies and practices:

• 🌟 Urgent Action Needed: The study underscores an urgent need for increased awareness and structural changes to better support menopausal women in the workforce.
• 🌈 Promoting Equity: Addressing these challenges not only enhances gender equity in the workplace but also contributes to the overall well-being of employees.

Joining Forces For Change

This significant research collaboration between SRI International and Lisa Health highlights the power of partnerships in driving impactful change. By bringing together expertise in research and women’s health advocacy, this study lays the groundwork for a more inclusive and supportive work environment for menopausal women.

Key Takeaways

• 👩‍💼 Empowering Women: Empowering menopausal women in the workplace is essential for their career progression and overall job satisfaction.
• 💼 Creating Awareness: Employers and policymakers must be aware of the unique challenges faced by this demographic and take proactive steps to address them.
• 🚀 A Call to Action: It’s time to bridge the gap between awareness and action, implementing policies, support systems, and digital solutions that cater to the needs of menopausal women.

Conclusion

The study conducted by SRI International and Lisa Health presents a compelling case for change in how we view and support menopausal women in the workplace. By recognizing and addressing these challenges, we can create a more inclusive, supportive, and thriving work environment for all.

Learn more about the study and join the conversation. Share your thoughts on these findings and let’s work together towards a more inclusive workplace for menopausal women! 💬🌟

This initiative is a testament to the power of collaboration in driving meaningful change for women in the workforce. Together, we can create a brighter, more inclusive future for all. 🌟🔥💼🌟

Meet the stellar team behind the paper, experts in women’s health, menopause, occupational psychology, physiology, and obstetrics and gynecology! 🌟

Elisabet Alzueta, PhD

Luca Menghini, PhD

Laila Volpe, MS

Fiona Baker, PhD

Ann Garnier

Philip Sarrel, MD

Massimiliano de Zambotti, PhD