A lack of workplace support for menopause is driving many women to consider leaving their jobs, as growing evidence points to the hidden strain of managing symptoms in silence.
Around three in five women say they have thought about quitting due to insufficient support, with many continuing to work while concealing the physical and emotional impact of menopause.
The data reflects a wider issue across UK workplaces, where millions of women are managing symptoms such as fatigue, anxiety and memory lapses without formal support or open discussion.
The research, from health technology firm Nurosym, highlights what has been described as “menopause masking”, where employees hide symptoms to maintain performance expectations.
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Workplace silence and stigma persist
Despite menopause affecting a large proportion of the workforce, awareness and support remain limited.
Three quarters of women experience symptoms, yet many feel unable to speak openly about their condition. Nearly half of those who have taken time off due to symptoms said they would not tell their employer the real reason.
It reflects, experts say, ongoing stigma, with employees often choosing to manage symptoms privately rather than risk negative perceptions at work.
Dr Elisabetta Burchi, head of research at Nurosym, said menopause is often misunderstood and overlooked in workplace settings. “Menopause remains culturally stigmatised, and this stigma shapes how women themselves respond to it.”
She said many women “mask their experience, appearing composed while suppressing symptoms and concealing physical and emotional distress.
“Left unaddressed and misunderstood, this silent burden can erode emotional resilience and cognitive function, ultimately holding women back from their full potential.”
Impact on careers and retention
The lack of support is having a measurable impact on careers, with some women stepping back from opportunities or leaving roles altogether. Around one in ten women have left a job due to menopause symptoms, while others have reduced hours or avoided promotions in order to cope.
Among those still in work, the pressure to perform while managing symptoms can affect confidence, progression and long-term career plans.
The data also shows that many workplaces are not equipped to respond. A large majority of women in the typical menopausal age range say their employer does not provide even basic support.
Growing focus on health and performance
Experts say menopause should be seen as a significant health and wellbeing issue, rather than something employees are expected to manage alone.
Dr Burchi said menopause involves significant physiological and psychological changes that can affect women’s health and performance.
“Menopause symptoms aren’t just something to be pushed through; they’re signals that the body’s homeostatic system is under pressure.
“When women are constantly masking how they feel, they’re effectively overriding those signals, which can lead to prolonged stress, fatigue and cognitive strain.
“Supporting the autonomic nervous system directly, particularly through the vagus nerve, can help restore wellbeing through improvement in body resilience.”
Call for better workplace support
Employers face increasing pressure to improve support for midlife health issues and retain experienced staff. With millions of women in the UK workforce currently within the typical age range for menopause, the issue has become a key factor in workforce planning and retention.
Experts say practical measures such as flexible working, manager training and open policies can help create a more supportive environment.
As awareness grows, the challenge for employers will be to move beyond recognition and put meaningful support in place, ensuring that experienced employees are not lost due to avoidable workplace barriers.
William Furney is a Managing Editor at Black and White Trading Ltd based in Kingston upon Hull, UK. He is a prolific author and contributor at Workplace Wellbeing Professional, with over 127 published posts covering HR, employee engagement, and workplace wellbeing topics. His writing focuses on contemporary employment issues including pension schemes, employee health, financial struggles affecting workers, and broader workplace trends.
- William Furney
- William Furney
- William Furney
- William Furney
