Menopause, Women’s Health, and Work

Menopause and the Menopausal Transition

Menopause occurs when menstrual periods stop permanently for at least 12 months. Menopause usually occurs around age 52 in the United States, but the age at natural menopause can vary from 45 to 55 years or older.^1,2

The menopausal transition is the time leading to menopause. During this time, periods become less regular and are spaced farther apart until women have their final period. Many women begin to experience menopausal symptoms during this time.^1,2

Common Symptoms

Hot flashes. The most common symptoms of menopause are hot flashes and night sweats (also known as vasomotor symptoms). Hot flashes are a sudden feeling of heat in the upper part of your body. The face and body can become flushed and red blotches may appear. Heavy sweating and cold shivering can follow. Learn more about how to manage and treat hot flashes.³

Trouble sleeping. Many women have trouble sleeping during menopause which may be related to hot flashes, night sweats, or frequent urination at night. Learn more about sleep problems during menopause and what to do.⁴

Vaginal dryness. Many women experience vaginal dryness and irritation related to menopause, and sex may be uncomfortable. Vaginal lubricants and moisturizers can help. Talk to your healthcare professional about medications to treat painful sex during menopause.⁵

Mood changes and memory. You may feel moody or irritable around menopause. Some women experience depression or report memory problems or difficulty concentrating. Talk to your healthcare or mental health provider about these concerns and treatments that can help.⁶

Other symptoms. Many women gain weight. Skin and hair can become drier and thinner. Urine may leak during exercise, sneezing, or laughing. Learn more about common menopause symptoms and what you can do.⁷

Staying Healthy During Menopause

Self-care. Some women can manage menopause symptoms on their own. Visit My Menoplan to create a personalized plan to manage hot flashes and other symptoms. Join a support group to learn how women cope with menopause.⁸

Talk to your healthcare professional. Effective treatments are available to manage symptoms. Talk to your healthcare professional about menopause treatments that are right for you.⁹

Practice healthy habits. During menopause, women have increased risk of heart disease and other health conditions. Be physically active, eat healthy foods, manage stress, maintain social connections, limit alcohol, and do not smoke. Learn more about staying healthy during menopause.¹⁰

The Impact of Menopause on Work

Women may reduce working hours or leave the workforce due to difficulty managing menopause symptoms at work. Workplaces can support women who may be experiencing menopause by offering flexible working arrangements, adjustable room temperatures, non-restrictive and breathable uniforms, and adequate access to restrooms. Women can share recommendations^11,12 with employers to improve working conditions for women experiencing menopause or the menopause transition.

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Learn more details about menopause, managing symptoms, and menopause at work.