Menopause at work: explaining practical needs

Starting the task

A difficulty at work can involve the heat of a room, interrupted nights or a demanding schedule. Choose what you want to improve in the situation, without feeling obliged to tell your entire medical record. A concrete request is often easier to discuss than a general discomfort.

Preparing a conversation

Think about the right person: responsible, human resources or health care professional at work according to your context. Describe an observable effect and possible adaptation. For example, a simpler access to water or a break in a cool place can be discussed without presenting these ideas as universal rights or guaranteed solutions.

• Choose the information you agree to share.
• Prepare a proposal that is compatible with your position.
• Agree on a moment to re-evaluate the organization.

An example to adapt to your daily life

During a meeting, the heat and duration make the situation difficult. You could ask for a break or another location, without having to share all your medical data. Prepare a task-centric formulation: what becomes complicated and what might help. If the contact person is not appropriate, ask who to turn to. Any adaptation must take into account the position and context. At the same time, evaluate the important symptoms rather than relying solely on a change of environment.

Do not reduce the problem to the post

If symptoms become important, also take a medical look. Work adaptations and health care can progress together. The vitality check can help to express daily needs, but does not provide any medical certificate or legal advice on employment.

Useful questions for your next exchange

• To whom do you send a confidential request?
• What adaptation of the position seems realistic?
• When to review the chosen organization?