Understanding Menopause: Latest Insights and Calls for Change

Supporting Women Through Menopause in the Workplace: 

A recent Senate inquiry into menopause has brought to light the struggles many women face in the workpce. According to a report by ABC News, there have been calls for reproductive leave to support women experiencing severe menopause symptoms. Advocates argue that menopause should be recognised as a legitimate reason for taking leave, much like maternity leave. This change could significantly improve the quality of life for women and enable them to remain productive in their careers longer.

“Reproductive leave should be implemented to acknowledge the impact of severe menopause symptoms, allowing women to take necessary time off without jeopardising their careers” ( ABC News ).

An article by SBS News highlights how menopause symptoms, such as severe itching described as “like ants on my skin,” are forcing many women to retire earlier than planned. These symptoms can be debilitating, affecting both physical and mental health. The lack of understanding and support in workplaces contributes to the decision of many women to leave their jobs prematurely. This not only impacts their financial security but also deprives the workforce of experienced professionals.

“Women are retiring years before they want to due to severe menopause symptoms, and it’s essential that workplaces provide the necessary support to retain these valuable employees” ( SBS News ).

Another report by ABC News discusses the difficulties women face in getting a perimenopause diagnosis. The Senate inquiry revealed that many women feel they are not taken seriously by healthcare professionals, often being misdiagnosed or dismissed. This delay in proper diagnosis and treatment exacerbates their symptoms and prolongs their suffering. Increased education and training for healthcare providers are crucial to ensuring women receive the care they need. This week alone, I’ve had two friends say their GP suggested antidepressants before hrt. That’s why access to services such as those provided by Dr Kelly Teagle and her team at  WellFemme  are so crucial.

“Many women report feeling dismissed by healthcare professionals, leading to delays in diagnosis and treatment of perimenopause” ( ABC News ).

In an opinion piece for The West Australian, Paul Maginn emphasises the need to stop considering menopause as “secret women’s business.” He argues that societal attitudes must shift to normalise discussions around menopause, making it a common topic in public and professional spheres. By doing so, we can foster a more inclusive environment where women feel supported and understood.

“Menopause should be a common topic in public and professional spheres to foster a more inclusive environment” ( The West Australian ).

Yes, menopause is a natural phase of life that every woman goes through, yet it remains shrouded in stigma and misunderstanding. The recent Senate inquiry and growing public discourse are steps in the right direction. By acknowledging the challenges and advocating for systemic changes, such as reproductive leave and better healthcare support, we can improve the lives of perimenopausal, menopausal, and postmenopausal women.

It’s not just the physical and mental issues surrounding menopause that are issues, the financial impact was also addressed and needs to improve. Facts like this are scary; The Australian Institute of Superannuation Trustees estimated that menopause could be costing Australian women "a collective loss of $15.2 billion in income and super for every year of early retirement over an average 7.4 years of missed earning opportunity," Claire King from the  Australian Council of Trade Unions  (ACTU) said. Women shouldn’t feel that early retirement is the only option, or be faced like a friend of mine recently with the ageism that means she’s only one job away from early retirement.

You can watch the full session of this Senate Community Affairs References Committee here.