Menopause is a natural and transformational phase in a woman’s life. Along with change and growth, there are a number of difficulties such as severe mood swings and hot flashes. Women going through this stage must be aware of its symptoms, so as to recognise them and implement workable ways to control hot flashes, particularly while at work. Menopause is the term used to describe the end of the reproductive period in women, usually occurring during their late 40s or early 50s. This natural shift is characterised by a decrease in the ovaries' synthesis of progesterone and oestrogen, which causes a range of symptoms.
Menopause has long been a taboo topic, both at home and in the office. However, as more businesses recognise the value of helping female employees through this challenging time in their lives and lowering the likelihood that they will leave their jobs, menopause is quietly making its way into India Inc's radar. A raft of initiatives is being introduced by companies such as HSBC India, IBM, HUL, Standard Chartered Bank, NatWest Group, and Intuit to attempt to normalise menopause. These include raising awareness, improving medical coverage to include menopause, and providing access to doctors, menopause specialists, and mental health support. Other initiatives include offering leaves of absence and flexible work schedules to assist female employees during this challenging time.
The menopause transition for many women occurs between 45 and 55 years of age, which is also the time when they could potentially assume senior leadership positions. It is a crucial stage in a woman’s life. and The organization, management and colleagues should support women experiencing menopause, since they’re less likely to ask for a promotion or take on more responsibilities during this time. In severe situations, they may even drop out of the profession! Studies show that menopause occurs in Indian women on average at 46.2 years of age, about five years earlier than in women in the West. This early menopause causes a range of psychological and physiological changes that might impair quality of life and productivity.
Here are a few essential tips to help you keep your cool and navigate this journey comfortably.
Dress comfortably: To readily adapt to temperature variations, layer up! This way, you’ll always be prepared. Use comfortable, permeable materials, such as cotton and linen.
Hydrate: Dehydration can exacerbate hot flashes. Drink plenty of water and take time to relax and cool off.
Communicate openly: To foster a supportive work environment, talk to your colleagues and supervisors about your symptoms.
Maximise workspace: Adjust the temperature in your workspace to a comfortable level and keep a hand fan handy to cool down quickly.
Stress management: To lessen stress, which exacerbates hot flashes, try deep breathing exercises and mindfulness.
Consume phytoestrogen-rich foods: To lessen the severity of hot flashes, include foods high in phytoestrogens such as soy, tofu, chickpeas, and flaxseeds in your diet.
Speak with a healthcare professional: To learn more about hormone therapy alternatives to manage menopausal symptoms, consult a healthcare professional.
Women can effectively maintain productivity, improve their quality of life, and handle menopause more easily by putting these recommendations into practice and receiving appropriate guidance.
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