Tackling the taboo in the UK: talking menopause-related problems at work

Hardy, Claire; Griffiths, Amanda; Thorne, Eleanor; Hunter, Myra

Abstract

Purpose: Women are typically reluctant to disclose menopause-related problems that may affect their working lives to line managers. Consequently, support may not be offered nor potential solutions explored. This study examines how working menopausal women would prefer to have conversations about the menopause at work.

Design/methodology/approach: Using semi-structured telephone interviews working menopausal women (aged 45-60 years) were asked about their experiencing of talking about their menopause at work, and how helpful conversations might be initiated and conducted. Transcripts were analyzed thematically to identify factors that may facilitate or hinder such conversations.

Findings: Two themes emerged: (i) organizational context. Facilitators included an open culture with friendly relationships, a knowledgeable and proactive manager, organization-wide awareness of the menopause and aging, and access to a nominated woman to discuss problems. Barriers included male-dominated workplaces, male line managers, fear of negative responses, stigma, discrimination, embarrassment or believing menopause is inappropriate to discuss at work; (ii) the nature of the discussion. Facilitators included managers demonstrating an understanding and acceptance of a woman's experience, jointly seeking acceptable solutions, respecting privacy and confidentiality, and appropriate use of humor, as opposed to being dismissive and using inappropriate body language. Discussions with suitable persons at work were preferred and being prepared was advised.

Practical implications: These findings could inform training programs, workplace policies and practice.

Originality/value: This study provides timely insights to help women and their managers discuss menopause-related difficulties at work and seek solutions together.

Citation

Hardy, C., Griffiths, A., Thorne, E., & Hunter, M. (2018). Tackling the taboo in the UK: talking menopause-related problems at work. International Journal of Workplace Health Management, 12(1), 28-38. https://doi.org/10.1108/IJWHM-03-2018-0035

• Journal Article Type: Article
• Acceptance Date: Oct 23, 2018
• Online Publication Date: Dec 17, 2018
• Publication Date: Dec 17, 2018
• Deposit Date: Oct 30, 2018
• Publicly Available Date: Oct 30, 2018
• Journal: International Journal of Workplace Health Management
• Print ISSN: 1753-8351
• Electronic ISSN: 1753-836X
• Publisher: Emerald
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• Volume: 12
• Issue: 1
• Pages: 28-38
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.1108/IJWHM-03-2018-0035
• Keywords: Menopause; Work; Disclosure; Talking
• Public URL: https://nottingham-repository.worktribe.com/output/1210081
• Publisher URL: https://www.emeraldinsight.com/doi/full/10.1108/IJWHM-03-2018-0035