It’s a natural part of life, but how much do you really know about the menopause? Tune into the virtual talks that explore this important topic

There’s an elephant in the room and it’s called the menopause.

The menopause is when a woman stops having periods and is no longer able to get pregnant naturally. According to the NHS, the menopause occurs between 45 and 55 years of age and, in the UK, the average age for a woman to reach the menopause is 51.

But, despite the fact that menopause is a natural part of life, a survey by Forth found that 90% of workplaces do not offer support to women during this time, leading 63% of women to note that the menopause negatively affects their working and home life. Beyond that, one in four women will experience debilitating symptoms that can last up to 15 years, coming together to make this an extremely trying and isolating time.

Symptoms can include:

  • Hot flushes
  • Night sweats
  • Vaginal dryness and discomfort during sex
  • Difficulty sleeping
  • Low mood or anxiety
  • Reduced sex drive (libido)
  • Problems with memory and concentration

A lot of work needs to be done to recognise precisely why and how we can support women better, and things are looking up. The British Menopause Society are leading the movement to bring menopause into the spotlight, and sites like the Hot Flush Club offer forums to vent and connect with others.

And the conversation doesn’t stop there. Below are three virtual events that will teach you everything you need to know about menopause as you have the opportunity to hear from others and discover tactics to help you break down barriers in the workplace and beyond.

1. Own Your Goals Live Weekend – 4th July

Tune into Davina McCall’s online ‘Chat and Unwind’ event, hosted for free on her on the OYG Weekender Facebook group. Going live at 4 PM, join in the discussion as Dr Louise Newson will be hosting a Q&A session with Davina.

Hurry over the the OYG Weekend website to reserve your spot.

2. Live Well London’s Life Begins @ 40 – 18 July

Join Live Well for a day of virtual talks, panels, and sessions all dedicated to mid-life wellbeing. Learn from talks on the menopause, anxiety, and sleep – and get back in touch with your body by slipping into your leggings for yoga and fitness classes.

Tickets are £10, and discover the full line-up by heading over to the Life Begins @ 40 event page.

3. ‘Understanding the menopause’ and ‘The menopause at work’ with Norma Goldman

Everyone benefits from taking the time to learn about menopause, whether you’re a man, woman, healthcare professional or business owner. And that value is at the heart of Norma Goldman’s –founder of The Menopause Exchange – work.

Join Norma as she works through general information about the menopause, and how we can make the workplace a better and more supportive environment. To join a webinar or to arrange one for your workplace, simply email norma@menopause-exchange.co.uk or call 020 8420 7245.