What is the Menopause?
Menopause is when menstrual periods permanently stop, marking the end of natural fertility. It occurs because the ovaries cease producing eggs, leading to a decline in hormones like oestrogen, progesterone, and testosterone. Menopause is officially reached after 12 consecutive months without a period, typically around age 51 in the UK, though timing varies. Early menopause, before age 45, or Premature Ovarian Insufficiency (POI), before 40, can result from factors like surgery, cancer treatments, or medical conditions. Symptoms often begin during perimenopause and may include hot flushes, mood swings, anxiety, and irregular periods, significantly impacting daily life and well-being.
Source: NHS & The Menopause Charity
How Can Menopause be Supported in the Workplace?
Supporting menopause in the workplace requires implementing a menopause policy developed in collaboration with staff and unions. Employers should review sickness and flexible working policies to accommodate menopausal symptoms. Providing access to cool drinking water, well-ventilated rooms, and flexible working arrangements, such as reducing hours or avoiding night shifts, can significantly improve wellbeing. Occupational health services and menopause-sensitive risk assessments are also important. Educating staff and creating a supportive environment where employees can openly discuss their experiences is crucial. Practical adjustments, such as flexible working or moving to cooler areas, should be encouraged while addressing ageist and sexist behaviours.
Source: British Medical Association & NHS Inform
Why are Menopause Speakers Hired for Events?
Hiring a menopause keynote speaker for corporate events can have a profound impact on workplace culture and awareness. A speaker with expertise in menopause can educate employees and leaders about the challenges and misconceptions surrounding menopause, helping to foster a more inclusive environment. They can offer valuable insights into how companies can support employees experiencing menopause, improving productivity and wellbeing. Additionally, such speakers promote open conversations, reduce stigma, and encourage policy changes like flexible working arrangements and better workplace accommodations. This creates a more supportive, understanding workplace, benefiting employee mental health and overall morale.
Menopause usually happens gradually, with the transition period known as perimenopause lasting 2 to 8 years, averaging about four. During perimenopause, hormone levels fluctuate, causing symptoms like irregular periods, vaginal dryness, hot flashes, night sweats, sleep issues, mood changes, and brain fog. Periods may skip months, become closer together in early perimenopause, and get farther apart as menopause approaches. Since menstrual cycles are unpredictable, pregnancy is still possible during this time. Each person's symptoms and experiences with menopause vary, making awareness and understanding of this life stage important for support and management.
Keynote speakers on menopause are hired to educate and raise awareness about the challenges and symptoms associated with this life stage. With more than 90% of postmenopausal women never taught about menopause in school and over 60% only seeking information once symptoms begin, these speakers play a crucial role in breaking stigmas, promoting open conversations, and supporting workplace policies - along with supporting the mental health of those experiencing perimenopause. Their insights empower individuals to manage symptoms and help organisations create inclusive environments that address the unique needs of those experiencing menopause, ultimately fostering wellbeing and productivity.
If you are interested in hiring a keynote speaker on menopause, contact Champions Speakers today. Call one of our dedicated booking agents on 0207 1010 553 or complete our online contact form.
