International Women’s Day brings broad awareness to the need for inclusive and effective programs.
SRI and Lisa Health today published a study that uncovers crucial insights into the challenges and needs of menopausal women in the workforce. Highlighted on International Women’s Day, this work shines an important spotlight on an often-overlooked aspect of workplace inclusivity, specifically how menopause impacts the careers and well-being of women. Lisa Health spun out of SRI in 2020 to create technology solutions for women.
“There is a notable gap between desired workplace measures — such as formal menopause policies, managerial training, and digital solutions — and their implementation,” said Massimiliano de Zambotti, PhD, co-founder and Chief Scientific Officer of Lisa Health and senior researcher at SRI. “The results underscore an urgent need for increased awareness and structural changes to better support menopausal women in the workforce. Addressing these challenges enhances gender equity and contributes to the overall well-being of employees.”
“Employers are becoming more aware of the unique challenges faced by this demographic and are taking proactive steps to address them,” said Fiona Baker.
A cross-sectional survey was conducted involving 351 working women aged 40 – 65 throughout the United States. The research delves deeply into the experiences of menopausal women in work settings, and the findings paint a vivid picture of the realities faced by menopausal women in today’s workforce. From symptom severity, caregiving challenges, impact on work, perceived capabilities, and implementation gap, the study reports several findings.
- 74% experience moderate to severe symptoms, affecting their daily work lives.
- 54% balance child or aging parent demands in addition to work responsibilities.
- 51% express concerns about being viewed as less capable due to their symptoms.
- Menopausal symptoms predict high levels of exhaustion, resulting in low efficiency.
- Menopausal symptoms are associated with increased intentions of leaving the workplace.
This significant research collaboration between SRI and Lisa Health highlights the power of collaboration in driving impactful change,” said Ann Garnier, co-founder and CEO of Lisa Health. “By bringing together scientific research and women’s health advocacy, we are laying the groundwork for a more inclusive and supportive work environment for menopausal women.”
The research team that conducted the study included experts in women’s health, menopause, occupational psychology, physiology, and obstetrics and gynecology.
SRI’s head of the Human Sleep Research lab, Fiona Baker commented, “Empowering menopausal women in the workplace is essential for their career progression and overall job satisfaction. Employers are becoming more aware of the unique challenges faced by this demographic and are taking proactive steps to address them. We are excited to drive meaningful change for women in the workforce. Together, we can create a brighter, more inclusive future.”
