Let’s talk about the menopause!

The Women@Reading staff network are delighted to be working alongside colleagues in Occupational Health to raise awareness of the lived experiences of women who may be experiencing the symptoms of the menopause.

All women go through the menopause, a time in every woman’s life when her periods stop and her ovaries lose reproductive function. This usually occurs between 45 to 55 years old.

There are a number of symptoms are associated with the menopause or perimenopause and these can be difficult to manage. It is also important to acknowledge that every woman’s experience of the menopause is different.

There are over 30 symptoms associated with menopause, but the British Menopause Society list of most commonly experienced symptoms includes:

• hot flushes
• vaginal dryness
• weight gain
• sleeping problems
• stress and anxiety
• loss of sex drive
• night sweats
• skin changes
• joint aches
• low energy
• low mood
• period changes
• brain fog
• sensitive bladder
• painful sex
• headaches

It is acknowledged that many women are not prepared for the menopause and the symptoms it may bring, and therefore may find it difficult to cope with work alongside the symptoms they are experiencing.

World Menopause Day takes place on Monday 18 October and aims to raise awareness about the menopause and support that is available.

You may find the following resources useful:

• Menopause Fact Sheet
• CIC our Employee’s Assistance Programme have produced this helpful leaflet
• The British Menopause Society has launched this series of seven short videos covering different aspects of the menopause

Upcoming event to note in your diary: Menopause talk, Wednesday 9 February 2022

The Women@Reading Network will also be hosting a talk with Mr Patrick Bose, Consultant Gynacologist at the Royal Berkshire Hospital in Reading on the topic of the Menopause at on Wednesday 9 February 2022, 14:00.

Patrick is an expert in Menopause Health and Reproductive Medicine, has previously worked for the World Health Organisation and has on-going research collaborations with the University of Reading. Details of how to book onto the session will be communicated later this term along with other planned events for this academic year so keep your eyes peeled!

Women@Reading Network

The Women@Reading Network are currently working on other initiatives with relevant stakeholders to raise awareness of how the conditions of endometriosis and period pains also affect women.

To find out more and/or if you are interested in joining the Network, please sign up through Microsoft Teams.