Most People Ask the Wrong Question About Menopause. Here's Why That Needs to Change.
When a woman opens up about menopause, the question is often “is it really that bad?”
The truth?
That question silences, shames and oversimplifies what is a deeply physiological, psychological and social transition, one that affects millions, yet remains misunderstood across families, workplaces and even healthcare systems.
So the real question we should be asking is “how can we guide someone through menopause with confidence and compassion?”
Here’s What the Research Says
Nearly 1 in 4 women consider leaving their job due to menopause symptoms– CIPD, 2019
45% of women say menopause symptoms make work more difficult– British Menopause Society
Less than 50% of UK medical schools provide menopause-specific education– British Menopause Society / Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists
According to The Fawcett Society, 1 in 10 women actually do leave their jobs due to menopause-related symptoms, creating financial instability, career disruption and talent loss.
An Oxford Economics report estimates that the cost of replacing an employee who leaves due to unmanaged menopause symptoms is approximately £30,000 per woman, including recruitment, training and lost productivity.
So Why the Lack of Understanding?
Lack of Education: Most GPs receive less than a day of menopause training in their entire career.
Cultural Silence: Menopause is still taboo in many communities, especially among women of colour.
One-size-fits-all Approach: Symptoms vary across age, ethnicity, lifestyle and health history, yet few services are designed with that diversity in mind.
Medical Misunderstanding: Menopause symptoms are often misdiagnosed as depression, anxiety or even dementia, leading to inappropriate medication and delayed care.
What’s the Impact?
In the Workplace: Loss of skilled professionals, increased absenteeism, presenteeism (working while unwell) and lower morale.
In Healthcare: Higher GP visits, rising prescriptions for antidepressants, increased referrals to mental health services and delayed diagnoses.
At Home: Emotional distance, communication breakdown, stress on partners and children and increased risk of family conflict.
What Can We Do?
For Employers: Build menopause-inclusive policies, offer flexible working, train managers and appoint menopause champions.
For Healthcare Professionals: Push for mandatory menopause training in medical schools and offer culturally competent care.
For Families and Friends: Educate yourself. Ask how you can support. Validate her experience instead of minimising it.
For Women: Speak up, seek support and share your story, you’re not alone and you deserve to be heard.
Let’s change the question from doubt to support. Instead of “Is it really that bad?” Ask “how can I walk this journey with you, more informed, more compassionate and more present?”
What do you wish people better understood about menopause? Let’s talk in the comments section below.
