The menopause usually occurs between the ages of 45 and 55 but can also occur in younger women. It happens when the ovaries run out of eggs and the hormones oestrogen, progesterone and testosterone fall. The perimenopause is the time before the menopause when hormone levels start to decline and symptoms start.
Perimenopausal and menopausal symptoms can last many years and even decades for some women. These symptoms can include hot flushes, anxiety, insomnia, problems with concentration and memory, fatigue, headaches, muscle and joint pains, urinary symptoms and low mood.
For many women these are debilitating symptoms that adversely affect their daily life, work, relationships and also their future health as menopausal women have a greater risk of heart disease, osteoporosis, diabetes, clinical depression and dementia.
Funding has been made available by the South Yorkshire Integrated Care System, and training provided by Henpicked. Colleagues were asked to share an expression of interest to become a Menopause Advocate, and it is something they do alongside their clinical or non-clinical role within the Trust.
These trained individuals can deliver presentations, support individuals by providing relevant information and signposting, as well as fact sheets and symptom checkers. Most importantly, they will advise any reasonable adjustments that can be undertaken at work, including a lighter uniform.
Zoe Lintin, Chief People Officer, said: “Our Trust has a predominantly female work force, with 13% being of the average menopausal age between 51 and 55 – and this doesn’t account for the one in 100 who will go through early menopause.
“Employees of all ages and genders need to be well informed about the perimenopause and menopause and how it could affect their colleagues, and able to signpost to both internal and external support and resources.
“This is a fantastic development at the Trust, and I am proud that colleagues have put themselves forward to get involved. It is important to ensure that current and future generations of women feel comfortable, confident and supported as they approach and experience the menopause – and I hope this is something we will continue at the Trust for a long time to come.”
As part of World Menopause Day (18 October) colleagues have also hosted an information stand at Doncaster Royal Infirmary.