Menopause and mental health

Here we explore what menopause is, its impact on your physical health, how it can affect your mood, cognition, and emotional and mental wellbeing. We’ll guide you through steps to look after yourself during this transition and outline the support options available, from medical treatments and talking therapies to workplace adjustments that can help you navigate this important life change.

What is menopause?

Menopause is a natural biological life stage where hormone levels decline with age, affecting women and people who experience menstruation. While physical symptoms like hot flushes and sleep disruption are often discussed, many also experience significant emotional and mental health effects including anxiety, depression, mood swings, and cognitive difficulties.

The stages commonly referred to are:

  • perimenopause,
  • menopause,
  • postmenopause.

Stages of menopause

Perimenopause

This stage is when you have symptoms before your periods have stopped. Periods become irregular and you might experience changes in flow, frequency and duraton as ovaries produce less oestrogen.

The perimenopause can start at different ages, some people enter perimenopause as early as their mid-30s, but it usually begins in your 40’s. This phase can last around 5 years, but it can last up to 8 years.

During this time pregnancy is still possible but fertility declines.

Menopause

A person is not considered to have reached menopause until their periods have stopped for 12 months, as ovaries stop releasing eggs and oestrogen production reduces.

The menopause commonly happens between the ages of 45 and 55.

This stage is the completion of the transition process.

Postmenopause

This stage follows on from the menopause where periods have stopped for 12 months.

This phase continues for the rest of a person’s life. During this stage symptoms may ease although this does vary from person to person.

It’s important to maintain regular health check-ups during this stage to ensure age related health risks are managed such as osteoporosis.

There are less common stages:

  • Early menopause: regular menstrual cycles stop before the age of 45. Find out more
  • Premature menopause: regular menstrual cycles stop before the age of 40. Find out more
  • Premature Ovarian Insufficiency (POI): your ovaries stop working properly before age 40, which can sometimes be temporary, with your periods returning later. Find out more
  • Induced menopause: occurs following specific medical interventions or operations that either remove the ovarian tissues or stop the ovaries from functioning. Also referred to as: ‘medical’, ‘surgical’ or ‘prompted’ menopause.

How can menopause impact your health?

Menopause affects people differently—physically, emotionally, and mentally. Symptoms can begin years before periods stop, lasting months or years after, and often change over time. Most experience at least one symptom, which can significantly impact daily life. Menopause caused by surgery or medical treatment often brings on symptoms more suddenly.

It is helpful for people to know the common symptoms of menopause, to help prepare for the impact they might have. Experiencing the physical symptoms in themselves can impact our mental wellbeing.

Physical symptoms can include:

  • Temperature changes: Hot flushes, night sweats
  • Menstrual changes: Irregular or missed periods
  • Vaginal and bladder symptoms: Vaginal dryness/discomfort, changes in libido, bladder issues (e.g., urgency, incontinence)
  • Sleep and energy: Sleep disturbances, fatigue
  • Pain and discomfort: Headaches, breast tenderness, joint and muscle aches
  • Cardiovascular changes: Heart palpitations, changes in cholesterol levels
  • Body changes: Weight gain (especially around the abdomen), hair thinning/loss, skin dryness or itchiness
  • Bone health: Loss of bone density

Mental health symptoms of menopause

Behavioural symptoms

  • Changes in eating habits (e.g., increased cravings)
  • Withdrawal from social activities
  • Decreased motivation or productivity
  • Increased reliance on alcohol or caffeine
  • Fluctuations in physical activity (either reduced or increased)

Cognitive symptoms

  • Memory lapses or forgetfulness
  • Difficulty focusing or making decisions
  • Poor concentration or mental fatigue (often called "brain fog")

Psychological and emotional symptoms

  • Mood changes or swings
  • Irritability or anger
  • Feelings of sadness or tearfulness
  • Increased emotional sensitivity
  • Frustration or impatience
  • Reduced confidence or self-esteem
  • Anxiety or feelings of dread
  • Depression or low mood
  • Increased stress or feeling overwhelmed
  • Reduced resilience to pressure or mental demands

Approximately, “70% of the 1.2 billion women over the age of 45 in the world developer neurological and psychiatric symptoms during the perimenopause” — the phase before their final menstrual period.

Many people experience mental health challenges during the menopausal transition, due to fluctuating oestrogen levels that can affect brain function, which can contribute to feelings of depression and anxiety in some. University College London (UCL) researchers discovered that women in the perimenopausal stage were about 40% more likely to experience depressive symptoms and receive a diagnosis of depression than those who were premenopausal.

It’s important to acknowledge and address the mental health impacts of menopause; very often the physical changes a woman is going through are the focus, but both can have a negative impact on everyday life and work life.

Factors to consider

Anxiety, depression, and low mood

Due to the hormonal changes, it’s common to experience fluctuations in mood: including depression, mood swings, panic attacks, anxiety, and low self-esteem. Some also experience problems with memory, also known as ‘brain fog’ which can cause them to lack confidence and feel low-mood. Menopause can cause an increased risk of depression.

Hormonal changes that cause physical effects, like palpitations and dizziness, can also mirror feelings of anxiety and panic attacks, amplifying symptoms for someone who may already experience an anxiety disorder.

Menopause and preexisting mental health

For people who already may live with a mental health condition, they may find menopause a particularly difficult time for managing their mental health as they might find their current symptoms are amplified due to the hormonal changes menopause brings.

Support can include altering the medication you may be taking for an existing mental health problem. Those particularly at risk of experiencing these additional challenges are those diagnosed with a mental illness such as bipolar disorder or schizophrenia.

Significant life change

Menopause can affect your mental health not just due to the symptoms experienced, but also because it’s a significant life transition. Many liken menopause to a life change as big as having your first child or losing a loved one. It can sometimes trigger deep reflections about identity, purpose, and one’s place in the world; especially if it coincides with major life transitions like career changes, children leaving home, or relationship challenges.

Many women experience a complex mixture of emotions, with some feeling a sense of freedom from monthly cycles, whilst others may feel a sense of loss of their younger selves.

 

 

Cultural influences

Menopause is a life stage shaped not just by biology, but also by psychological and cultural influences. How the menopause is experienced and talked about varies significantly due to differences in diet, traditions, religious beliefs, and societal attitudes toward ageing and womanhood.

Cultural attitudes in some societies, can perceive this life stage negatively – as a sign of ageing or loss of fertility, whilst others view it as a positive transformation, enhancing their social standing whilst representing wisdom, maturity, or new personal freedom.

Menopause for intersex, non-binary, and transgender people

Historically menopause information focused mainly on cisgender women (i.e., someone whose gender identity matches the sex assigned to them at birth).

Trans, non-binary, and intersex people can experience menopause symptoms and experiences can vary depending on their bodies, medical history, and hormone use.

Intersex people born with variations in sex characteristics, may or may not go through menopause depending on their specific biological and medical history.

Non-binary people may also experience menopause, depending on the sex they were assigned at birth and what medical treatments they’ve had.

Trans men assigned female at birth but identify as male, can go through menopause if they still have their ovaries and aren’t on gender-affirming hormone therapy. If they stop taking oestrogen and don’t take testosterone, their body may go through menopause naturally. If a trans man has had their ovaries or uterus removed, menopause may happen earlier with possibly more intense symptoms. Some still experience symptoms even when taking testosterone.

If looking for mental health professionals, seek those trained in LGBTQIA+ affirmative or culturally competent approaches, to ensure your identity and experiences are respected.

Getting the menopause support you deserve

It's important to reach out to others to get the support you need throughout your menopause. The symptoms can affect your daily life and wellbeing – so seek help if you're struggling.

Experiencing perimenopause or menopause can feel isolating or embarrassing. Talking to your doctor about any significant changes will help them identify the best form of help they can provide.

Talking to your manager at work, partner, family, and friends might also help them understand what you are going through and how they can support you. Sharing experiences with others can help you feel less isolated and provides an opportunity to share supportive suggestions.

Find out what mental health support is available to you, and learn more about anxiety and depression.

Make an appointment with the GP

If you think you may be perimenopausal or menopausal and it’s starting to affect your daily life, it’s important to book an appointment with your GP. Menopause can bring a wide range of physical, emotional, and cognitive changes that may impact your work, relationships, sleep, and overall wellbeing. Your GP will take several factors into account—such as your age, menstrual history, current symptoms, and mental health changes.

Speaking with your GP about your symptoms and concerns will help you to receive tailored advice and explore the best treatment options for your individual needs. Early support can make a significant difference in managing symptoms and improving your quality of life.

Talking to your GP about the menopause

Here are a few tips when considering making an appointment with your GP

Before the appointment

  • Make a list of your symptoms and any questions.
  • If you have a mental health condition, note the changes in symptoms.
  • Track your menstrual cycle and note any changes in flow, frequency, or duration.
  • Review trusted menopause resources to feel confident (e.g., NHS).
  • Ask if a GP with a menopause specialism is available.
  • Book a double appointment if you need more time.
  • Consider bringing a partner or friend for support.

During the appointment

Discuss and explore:

  • Physical and mental/emotional symptoms of menopause
  • Lifestyle changes to support wellbeing
  • History of mental health symptoms, compared with current
  • Treatment options, including benefits and risks
  • Long-term health impacts, alongside history of breast cancer
  • Contraceptive needs during perimenopause (e.g., Mirena coil use with HRT)
  • When to book a review appointment to follow up on symptom management and medication.

If you don’t feel heard

  • Rebook and go prepared with notes and research.
  • Consider submitting a written summary of your concerns in advance to help guide the conversation.
  • Take someone with you who can help advocate on your behalf.
  • Ask to see another GP or one with menopause expertise.
  • Be clear about your treatment preferences and informed choices—this can help your GP better support you.
  • Request a referral to a menopause clinic if symptoms persist or are complex.

Your symptoms should be taken seriously. Treatment should be an ongoing discussion, with follow-up appointments to assess progress. Medications such as Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) may take time to adjust, and it’s okay to try different options.

If you are still having problems, you have the right to make a complaint about the treatment you receive. You could also consider making a complaint to the NHS.

Menopause treatment options

There are several treatment options available that may help ease the physical and psychological effects of menopause. Since everyone’s experience is unique, it’s important to find what works best for you.

Below are some of the options you could consider.

Medication

For people experiencing severe menopausal symptoms that is causing an impact on their physical or mental health, Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) may be recommended by a doctor. This therapy replaces low level hormones and can relieve common menopause symptoms. How long you can be on HRT depends on a variety of factors, so it is best to regularly update your GP and decide together when it might be best to come off.

If you have any questions or concerns about the risks of taking HRT, do voice these to your doctor, so you can make an informed decision. Also, those with a history of breast cancer might be advised to avoid oestrogen-based treatment because certain cancers can be hormone-sensitive, meaning that hormones such as oestrogen and progesterone—can stimulate the growth of cancer cells. The NHS’ website outlines the benefits and risk of HRT.

Other treatments may include oestrogen therapy to improve symptoms associated with vaginal pain and urinary issues. There are both benefits and disadvantages of hormonal treatment, which can be found on the NHS website.

Antidepressants are sometimes prescribed to help manage mental health symptoms during menopause. However, antidepressants should not be the first choice for treating low mood related to perimenopause and menopause, as there is no strong evidence to suggest they effectively relieve psychological symptoms.

Talking therapies

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is a proven approach for managing the psychological and emotional shifts that can occur during perimenopause and menopause. It supports you in regaining clarity and emotional stability by addressing your thoughts and feelings.

CBT works by breaking down barriers and challenges so it becomes more manageable, equipping you with tools and strategies to confidently handle distressing thoughts, emotions, and physical responses more effectively.

It offers a practical method for interrupting negative thinking patterns, encouraging more constructive responses to life’s challenges.

In addition to CBT, counselling and psychotherapy can also be valuable in helping you navigate and adjust to the transitions and challenges of this stage of life. It provides you with the space to explore the emotional and personal impact of menopause, especially if you’re facing relationship challenges, identity shifts, or grief (e.g., around fertility or aging).

These therapies offer a non-judgemental, supportive environment to process what you’re going through and to help you reconnect with your sense of self and purpose.

Find out more about counselling and psychotherapy

Alternative/ complimentary remedies

It’s entirely your choice whether you take prescribed medication or follow an alternative treatment route, many people opt for a combination of both, depending on their symptoms, lifestyle, and personal preferences. Alternative approaches can include therapies like acupuncture, herbal remedies (e.g., black cohosh, red clover, St John’s Wort), aromatherapy, hypnotherapy, mindfulness practices, dietary changes, and nutritional supplements (e.g., magnesium, vitamin D, omega-3s).

In the main, these alternative approaches aim to manage symptoms such as sleep disturbances, mood swings, hot flashes, etc. Some people find these therapies beneficial, it’s important to read the research and seek reputable and accredited professionals. Effectiveness can be mixed and vary greatly from person to person, so keeping a symptom tracker may help to see if there are benefits within a reasonable amount of time. More research is needed to fully understand how effective this approach is.

Visit the NHS’ website for more information on alternative therapies

It’s important to note that some alternative remedies interact with other medication you might be taking so do speak with your GP or pharmacist for advice.

Menopause self-care tips

There are plenty of ways you can look after yourself during this life stage and below are some ideas:

Prioritise your wellbeing and seek support

Take time to focus on your own wellbeing. Reprioritise to ensure you can support your needs so that you can and manage both home and work life. Speak with your GP and connect with others going through similar experiences. Stay informed so you can make choices confidently.

Getting plenty of rest

Sleep problems are quite common during the menopause due to various reasons such as insomnia, night sweats, etc. Try relaxation activities and meditation.
Adopt regular sleeping habits.

Eating a healthy diet

Replenish vitamins and minerals that might be depleted during this stage such as calcium and vitamin D (bone density). Cut down refined sugar, coffee, and alcohol, which can make symptoms worse. Keep hydrated and drink 2 litres of water a day to boost the condition of your hair, skin and organs.

Regular movement and exercise

Include movement into your daily activities, this can have numerous positive effects such as lifting mood, improving sleep, strengthening bone density, and preventing weight gain.

Allow your feelings

Sharing how you feel with trusted family, friends, colleagues or professionals, such as a GP or therapist will help you process what you are going through. consider journaling to release emotions without judgement.

Don’t compare yourself

Everyone experiences the menopause differently - focus on your own journey. What works for someone else may not work for you - and that’s okay. Listen to your body, trust your instincts, and seek support that fits your unique needs.

Lifestyle changes

Menopause can bring physical changes like hot flushes, night sweats, and disrupted sleep, so it’s helpful to make practical adjustments that ease discomfort.

Wear light, breathable cotton clothing to stay cool, carry a fan with you, etc. Small changes can make a big difference in helping you feel more comfortable and in control.

Maintain work-life balance

Menopause can affect your energy, focus, and mood, so it's important to create a healthy balance between work and personal life. Set clear boundaries - avoid taking work home and prioritise rest and self-care.

Make time for activities that recharge you. Communicate openly with your employer if adjustments are needed, such as flexible hours or a quieter workspace.

Embrace a new chapter

It can feel like there are challenges and losses throughout the menopause - but it can also be a powerful time of renewal and growth.

Use this time to rediscover what truly matters to you. Take time to reflect and envision the next chapter of your life - what do you want more of, what passions might you explore, and what new goals could bring you joy and fulfilment?

Menopause in the workplace

Workplaces have responsibility to support employees experiencing menopause in the same way they may support and offer reasonable adjustments for staff living with other challenges - to ensure no one is disadvantaged.

Tips for employees to start the conversation with their managers:

  • Request privacy

    Ask for a confidential meeting with your manager in a quiet, private setting.

  • Prepare ahead

    Make notes about your symptoms and any adjustments that could help you manage them.

  • Be open and clear

    Explain that you’re experiencing menopause or perimenopause and describe how it affects your work.

  • Share resources

    If needed, signpost your employer to trusted information.

  • Focus on solutions

    Suggest practical adjustments to help you work comfortably and effectively.

  • Look for workplace support

    Check if your HR team offers guidance or if peer support groups exist within your organisation.

  • Follow up

    Arrange a check-in to review any changes and ensure they’re working for you.

Downloadable resources

Empower yourself with a range of guidance and tools, such as a symptom tracker to help you monitor changes, self-care tips to boost wellbeing, guidance on workplace adjustments to help you thrive at work, and wellbeing action plans tailored specifically for people going through menopause.

Menopause symptom tracker

Mood and gratitude trackers

Self-care tips

Workplace adjustments

Menopause wellbeing action plan

Frequently Asked Questions

Does menopause cause mental illness?

Hormonal changes during menopause can sometimes intensify or worsen existing mental health conditions.

Menopause can affect conditions like bipolar disorder or schizophrenia. People experiencing the menopausal transition are more likely to face mood fluctuations, along with symptoms of depression and anxiety.

The physical, emotional, and cognitive challenges linked to menopause often overlap with mental health symptoms, making them harder to distinguish. Additionally, stress from life events during this stage can further blur the lines between hormonal changes and mental health concerns.

Common menopause-related symptoms — such as hot flushes, night sweats, sleep disruption, changes in sexual health, weight fluctuations, and “brain fog” — can overlap with mental health concerns, making it difficult to separate the two. Adding to this complexity, midlife often brings personal and environmental stressors, which can further influence mood and emotional wellbeing.

Studies indicate that people going through perimenopause face an increased risk of developing serious mental health conditions such as major depression, schizophrenia, or bipolar disorder. Additionally, those with existing diagnoses often experience a deterioration in their symptoms during this time.

Can menopause cause depression?

Menopause can raise the risk of depression, but it’s not just about hormones – other factors matter too. It’s normal to have mood swings during this time, but these shouldn’t be confused with depression, which involves feeling low for a longer period. People without a history of depression or anxiety don’t usually develop severe symptoms suddenly during menopause. However, this stage of life often brings extra stress, like raising kids, caring for ageing parents, or dealing with big life changes, which can increase the chance of feeling depressed or anxious.

UCL researchers found that people going through perimenopause are 40% more likely to experience depression than those who aren’t yet showing menopausal symptoms. Perimenopause is marked by hormone changes that can cause mood swings, irregular periods, and other physical and cognitive symptoms. The study showed a clear link between perimenopause and increased risk of depression.

Find out more about depression

Can menopause cause anxiety?

For some, perimenopause can intensify feelings of anxiety but the link between anxiety and menopause is less clear than depression. This, in part, is due to the symptoms of menopause mimicking symptoms associated with panic attacks, such as hot flashes.

Those who’ve struggled in the past with anxiety might find symptoms resurfacing or increasing, so it’s important to raise this with your GP.

Research shows that when oestrogen levels drop, stress hormone (cortisol) levels can rise. Other hormones and brain chemicals are likely involved too, since the brain is complex and everyone’s response is different. Some people are more sensitive to these hormonal changes than others, such as people who’ve experienced postnatal depression or strong PMS symptoms.

Many experience anxiety during perimenopause, with estimates suggesting that between 15% and 50% report symptoms such as anxiety, low mood, memory issues, or trouble sleeping. Some research points to even higher rates — for instance, one study found that 58% of women in this stage reported anxiety symptoms, while another reported that 54.2% showed some level of anxiety.

Can someone’s personality change during the menopause?

Whilst it might seem as though a person’s personality can change during menopause, it’s important to remember their core identity remains the same. Changes in hormone levels can lead to mood swings, irritability, anxiety, or trouble focusing, all of which can affect how a person responds to situations and interacts with others. It’s important to appreciate that people experience this phase in their lives very differently. Whilst it might appear to others they’ve changed, they are navigating a lot of changes both physically and psychologically. Adapting to their changing needs will be an essential way to support them.

Is anger common during the menopause?

Anger and irritability are common during perimenopause and menopause, largely due to hormonal changes — particularly the drop in oestrogen — which can affect brain chemicals like serotonin that regulate mood. These shifts often lead to mood swings ranging from mild frustration to intense anger, sometimes without clear triggers.

Studies show that up to 70% of people experience irritability during this time. These emotional changes can also impact relationships, as increased sensitivity and reactivity may lead to misunderstandings or conflict, especially with partners. Recognising these symptoms as hormonally driven can help with managing them more effectively.

Can someone have a mental breakdown during the menopause?

The terms ‘mental breakdown’ or ‘mental health crisis’, are commonly used to describe a period of intense emotional and psychological strain. Neither are clinical diagnoses but are used to refer to a situation where a person feels unable to manage daily responsibilities due to extreme distress. This can be experienced differently such as panic attacks, intense anxiety or depression, emotional overwhelm, or withdrawal from interactions.

Menopausal symptoms can be experienced with such intensity emotionally and psychologically that someone’s wellbeing and personal relationships can be affected. If someone feels as though they are approaching burnout or an emotional or mental crisis it’s important to seek support as soon as possible.

If it’s an emergency call 999 or go to your local Accident and Emergency department, if it’s not an emergency call NHS 111 or your doctor to discuss your symptoms and possible support they can provide.

Can the menopause cause relationship difficulties?

A survey conducted by The Family Law Menopause Project and Newson Health Research and Education (2022) found a correlation between menopause and relationship breakdown, with 7 in 10 women blaming the menopause for the breakdown of their marriage. However, there are numerous contributing factors to relationship strain.

It’s important to acknowledge the challenges that people might experience during menopause and the impact they may have on them, their husbands or their partners, and their relationships. However, attributing a breakdown solely to menopause could overlook other barriers and challenges, as well as responsibilities of both partners in maintain a healthy relationship.

Does HRT improve mental health?

Some studies have shown that Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) improves mental health for those experiencing menopausal symptoms by balancing hormones. It can help stabilise mood, reduce anxiety and depression, and improve sleep quality, which in turn boosts overall wellbeing. By restoring oestrogen levels, HRT can positively affect serotonin, a neurotransmitter linked to mood regulation.

HRT is often used alongside other treatments, such as talking therapy, to support with the mental health challenges they face during menopause.

However, some research indicates the benefits of HRT on mental health are unclear. How HRT affects your mental health depends on several factors: what type you take, how you take it (pills, patches, etc.), your individual hormone levels, and what specific mental health symptoms you’re experiencing. More research is needed into the complex interplay. Speak to your GP or specialist about your concerns and queries and they should provide you with up-to-date guidance.

Find out more from these research papers:

Can HRT make your mental health worse?

Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) can sometimes trigger or worsen mental health symptoms, especially in the early stages of treatment, causing mood swings, anxiety, or even depression. However, HRT has been shown in some studies to improve mental wellbeing by addressing menopause-related symptoms like irritability and low mood.

The effects vary widely, some may experience temporary mood changes, while others may not notice any difference. The progesterone component of HRT may also contribute to side effects like irritability or fatigue.

It’s important to regularly communicate with your GP or healthcare provider in case the treatment needs to be adjusted and to help distinguish between menopause-related mental health issues and those potentially caused by HRT.

What is menopause psychosis?

Menopause-associated psychosis (MAP) refers to the onset of psychotic symptoms — such as hallucinations, delusions, or disorganised thinking — around the time of menopause. It’s a rare condition believed to be connected to hormonal changes, especially the drop in oestrogen, which can influence brain function and potentially trigger psychosis.

Research indicates that the risk of developing psychotic disorders, including late-onset schizophrenia, may rise during the menopausal transition. Oestrogen plays a role in supporting brain health and acts as an antioxidant. As levels decline during menopause, this drop may interfere with normal brain activity and contribute to the emergence of psychotic symptoms.

People with MAP may experience signs similar to other types of psychosis, including hallucinations, delusional thoughts, difficulty organising thoughts, and blunted emotional responses.

If you notice any signs of psychosis during the menopausal transition, it’s important to speak with a healthcare professional right away. Getting support early can make a big difference in managing symptoms and improving overall wellbeing.

Find out more information

Is menopause harder than perimenopause?

It’s hard to determine if perimenopause or menopause is “worse,” as each person’s experience differs significantly. However, perimenopause, the phase before menopause, is often seen as more challenging due to its unpredictable and varied symptoms.

Menopause, which is officially diagnosed after a year without a menstrual period, tends to be less symptomatic, though certain issues like hot flashes and vaginal dryness can continue into post-menopause for some.

How can you mentally deal with menopause?

Managing the mental aspects of perimenopause and menopause involves an holistic approach that can include lifestyle adjustments, medication, therapy, and self-care.

Self-care practices are crucial as well, such as prioritising good sleep, a balanced diet, regular exercise, and stress-reduction techniques like mindfulness or meditation can significantly enhance mental wellbeing.

Building a strong support network is also helpful. Connecting with others going through similar experiences can reduce feelings of isolation and offer helpful advice. Open communication with loved ones helps build understanding and support.

Everyone will have a different approach to mentally dealing with the transitions they are going through based on their culture, experience, symptoms, lifestyle, relationships etc. It’s important to reflect and take time to understand and recognise what the individual might need to prepare and process the changes they are going through.

How does the menopause impact gender dysphoria?

Menopause can sometimes trigger or worsen gender dysphoria (the emotional distress that can occur when a person’s physical characteristics do not align with their gender identity). For some trans men, non-binary and intersex people, the physical and hormonal changes associated with menopause – such as hot flushes, changes in menstruation, or shifts in body shape – might heighten discomfort or distress linked to gender identity. This can have a significant impact on mental health and overall wellbeing.

Supportive, affirming healthcare is essential during this time. Inclusive care – free from assumptions and respectful of a person’s gender identity – can make a meaningful difference. Unfortunately transgender, non-binary, and intersex people might face additional barriers to accessing menopause care. These can include a lack of provider knowledge, variations in the timing or presentation of menopause symptoms (especially when taking gender-affirming hormone therapy), and limited access to relevant or inclusive resources.

These challenges can delay or complicate access to the care and support individuals need and deserve.

Workplace Frequently Asked Questions

Is menopause a protected characteristic?

Menopause is not specifically listed as a protected characteristic under the Equality Act 2010. However, if an employee faces discrimination or unfair treatment due to menopause symptoms, they may be protected under other characteristics like sex, age, or disability. If menopause symptoms significantly and long-term affect a person’s ability to perform day-to-day activities, it could be classified as a disability, offering further protection.

The Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 requires employers to protect the health, safety, and wellbeing of their employees, which includes addressing menopausal symptoms as this may affect their work performance. Workplaces are encouraged to consider reasonable adjustments or providing additional support.

To find out more visit:

Is menopause considered a disability in UK law?

Menopause can be considered a disability under the Equality Act 2010 if its symptoms significantly and persistently affect a worker’s ability to perform daily tasks. In such cases, employers are required to make reasonable adjustments, such as altering work conditions, hours, or providing facilities like fans or cool spaces. Employers may also need to allow flexible working or remote work.

Even if there are no legal obligation to make adjustments, employees have the right to request flexible working, a statutory right which came into effect from 6 April 2024. Employment Tribunals will assess menopause-related disabilities on a case-by-case basis, considering how symptoms impact daily activities, as menopause affects each individual differently.

While some argue that menopause should not be classified as a disability, increasing awareness among judges acknowledges its potential to be debilitating. In 2022, the Women and Equalities Committee highlighted that menopausal women, a growing workforce group, often lack support, leading many to reduce hours or leave work. The Committee called for better legal protections and greater employer awareness of existing health and safety laws related to menopause.

Is menopause a reason to be off work?

There is no specific law providing time off for menopause, but if symptoms are severe, employees may receive a medical certificate, and their absences could be managed under the employer’s sickness policy. When menopause symptoms significantly affect work performance, they may be classified as a disability under the Equality Act, obligating employers to make reasonable adjustments.

To find out more visit:

What reasonable workplace adjustments can be made for perimenopause and menopause?

Reasonable workplace adjustments for menopause vary depending on the employer, the roles and responsibilities and the severity of symptoms, but common examples include:

  • Flexible working hours: Allowing employees to adjust their working hours or pattern and to work from home to accommodate fluctuating symptoms, such as fatigue or hot flashes.
  • Temperature control: Providing access to cool spaces, fans, or air conditioning to help manage hot flashes and temperature sensitivity.
  • Frequent breaks: Offering regular breaks to reduce stress, rest, or manage symptoms like fatigue, dizziness, or hot flashes.
  • Job role adjustments: Modifying duties or workloads to accommodate physical or mental fatigue, ensuring employees can manage tasks more effectively.
  • Supportive facilities: Providing private spaces for employees to rest or cool down, or ensuring access to drinking water throughout the day.
  • Mental health support: Offering access to counselling or Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) to help manage emotional symptoms like mood swings or anxiety.

Employers are encouraged to discuss individual needs with employees to find the most effective adjustments and create a supportive work environment.

To find out more about reasonable adjustments, visit ACAS.

How can I discuss menopause in the workplace to support a colleague?

Approaching a conversation about menopause in the workplace requires empathy, respect, and sensitivity. Every person’s experience is different, as is whether they want to talk about it.

Important things to consider:

  • Don’t assume they are or are not going through the menopause.
  • Only mention the menopause should they bring it up with you.
  • Use inclusive and empathic language.
  • Avoid comments that minimise their experiences.
  • Don’t ask insensitive or invasive questions around their age, stage, surgery, or medication, etc.
  • Allow them to guide their story and share information they are comfortable to.
  • Ask open and supportive questions e.g. “Is there anything I can support you with?”
  • Respect their privacy and confidentiality at all times.

Useful contacts

The contacts listed in alphabetical order below, are provided for information only and do not constitute endorsements or recommendations.

We encourage you to use your own judgement and seek professional advice where needed. Always check the qualifications and credentials of any service provider before engaging their services.

Daisy Network

Provide information and support to people diagnosed with Premature Ovarian Insufficiency, also known as Premature Menopause.

Menopause NICE guidelines

Guidelines providing evidence-based recommendations for diagnosing and managing menopause. It supports healthcare professionals in offering personalised care, including guidance on hormone replacement therapy (HRT), lifestyle changes, and alternative treatments, helping people make informed decisions and improve their quality of life during menopause.

Menopause Support

UK-based not-for-profit offering information, guidance, and one-on-one support for those experiencing menopause. They provide private consultations, free educational resources, and tailored training for workplaces.

Pausitivity

Pausitivity’s campaign aims to take away the fear and confusion when menopause symptoms start to affect the body and mind by working to have their #KnowYourMenopause poster displayed in every GP practice and other public spaces. They also feature support and information on their site.

Queer Menopause

Offers inclusive, LGBTQIA+ focused resources to help individuals better understand and navigate menopause. Addresses the lack of menopause information available for LGBTQIA+ people, including non-cisgendered, non-heterosexual individuals, and the lack of information available for people in the BAME community.

Rock My Menopause

Set up to give people the confidence to recognise and discuss their symptoms and equip families, friends, employers and the wider public with information about the menopause.

The British Menopause Society

UK’s leading authority on menopause and post-reproductive health. It provides education, guidance, and resources to healthcare professionals to support women through perimenopause and menopause. The BMS also works to improve standards of care for those experiencing menopausal symptoms and contains a directory of both NHS and private menopause specialists.

The Menopause Charity

UK charity dedicated to improving understanding and support for menopause. It provides evidence-based information to individuals and healthcare professionals, advocates for better health outcomes for women, and works to raise awareness and reduce the stigma surrounding menopause.

Adjustments at work

Workplaces have responsibility to support employees experiencing menopause in the same way they may support and offer reasonable adjustments for staff living with other challenges – to ensure no one is disadvantaged.

“Having an approachable manager was important, so I felt comfortable to ask for things that would help – like a fan. Workplaces can help by being sensitive to what you’re going through. Regular check ins with my manager meant I could keep them up to date with how I was getting on and other reasonable adjustments I might need.” – Gemma

 

Discussing menopause in the workplace

Elizabeth's story

Before experiencing extreme anger and mood swings during her menopause, Elizabeth never considered herself to experience changes to her mental health. She shares how her mental health affected both her home life and work, and explains that understanding and realising her symptoms were related to the menopause meant she could begin to take steps to receive treatment and help from her GP. Elizabeth is the founder of #KnowYourMenopause, campaigner for Pausitivity and blogger at 50Sense celebrating women 40 and over.

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