Menopause is a natural biological process that marks the end of a woman's reproductive years and is typically characterised by a decline in the production of reproductive hormones, particularly estrogen and progesterone. The symptoms of menopause can vary widely among women and may include hot flashes, night sweats, mood changes, fatigue, sleep disturbances, and cognitive changes.
If you're going through this transition, the chances are you might be busy within your career as well. Because of the hormonal changes that happen to your body throughout menopause, you might find it impacts you in different areas of your life.
Will menopause impact me at work?
The short answer is this - yes, menopause can potentially impact you at work. You might be impacted by a range of symptoms (though, some women are lucky to not be impacted at all). When left untreated, these symptoms might end up impacting your performance at work. You might notice:
Physical Discomfort: Hot flashes, night sweats, and fatigue can lead to physical discomfort and disrupt concentration and focus, making it challenging to perform tasks efficiently.
Mood Changes: Menopause can bring about mood swings, irritability, and anxiety, which may impact interactions with colleagues, clients, and superiors.
Cognitive Changes: Some women may experience cognitive changes such as memory lapses, difficulty concentrating, or "brain fog," which could affect problem-solving skills and decision-making abilities.
Sleep Disturbances: As you know, your menopause can wreak havoc on your sleep, which can lead to decreased energy levels, reduced alertness, and impaired cognitive function during work hours.
Thrive at work during menopause
Every woman is different. But of course, there are ways you can manage the impact of how menopause is effecting you in the work place. Something things we suggest is:
- Find a supportive work environment that supports women's health and well-being. Request accommodations if necessary, such as flexible work hours or a more comfortable workspace. Transparent communication can foster understanding and support.
- Prioritise self-care by focusing on your physical and mental well-being. Incorporate regular exercise, balanced nutrition, and stress-reducing practices like meditation or deep breathing into your day to day life. Prioritising self-care can improve energy levels and overall resilience.
- Make sure you dress comfortably. Opt for breathable fabrics and layered clothing to manage hot flashes. This simple adjustment can alleviate discomfort and help you stay focused on your tasks.
- Prioritise managing your menopause symptoms. There is help available when it comes to managing your menopause symptoms. Chat with your GP and do your own research through Women's Health agencies such as Jean Hailes for Women's Health. Here at The Goodnight Co. we've specifically created a range of products that help you throughout Menopause to keep your symptoms under control. Have a look at our Menopause Collection for natural remedies to support your current menopause related concerns.
