A survey by the Irish Congress of Trade Unions found that almost half of respondents felt that menopause was treated 'like a joke' in their workplaces. Photograph: iStock
Representatives pointed to a wide range of union-backed research from the past few years that suggests a strong desire on the part of members to see improvements to the way the issues are handled by employers. It argues women are entitled to protections under existing employment legislation. It also contends the introduction of appropriate supports would have a significant impact on sick-leave absences in workplaces, something that would benefit both workers and their employers.
“This is very serious. The potential for women’s careers to be negatively impacted particularly by menopause needs to be eliminated, and education and awareness training are key to reducing stigma and facilitating the vital conversations women need to have at work.