Nearly a fifth of the British workforce is battling through the day with symptoms of the menopause, according to the largest-ever study into the condition. Over six million adults – nearly two-thirds (64 per cent), of the 10 million working with menopause – admit their ability to work efficiently and effectively is impaired by things such as the inability to focus, and a literal loss of voice.
Nearly half of those affected (44 per cent) are overwhelmed by tiredness during normal working hours. And 30 per cent struggle with concentration levels – with poor memory also having a major impact for 23 per cent.
However, while colleagues and management are largely very supportive, kind, and inclusive, exactly six in ten women polled say the subject of menopause is still taboo. Just under a quarter have given in and taken a day off work to manage their symptoms – but of these, only 36 per cent told their employer why on every occasion.
