Bluecrest Wellness have expanded our health assessment offering to include a menopause hormone test – aiming to help perimenopausal and menopausal women understand their bodies and take control of their health.
The menopause hormones test is a blood test that looks at Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH) levels, which play a crucial role in promoting egg growth and stimulating the production of oestrogen. As women approach menopause their bodies gradually stop producing eggs, causing FSH levels to rise. This elevation in FSH levels can be one indicator that women are approaching menopause.
Dr Martin Thornton, Chief Medical Officer at Bluecrest Wellness said: “FSH test results are a really important tool for women and their doctors to understand what’s happening in their bodies. The results need to be considered alongside other menopause symptoms, including things like mood changes, memory and concentration issues, irregular periods, hot flashes, fatigue, and lower sex drive.”
Menopause in the workplace
Menopause can often have a profound impact on women that can affect their family life – and their experience in the workplace.
“According to the NHS, menopausal women are the fastest growing demographic in the workplace,” says Dominque, “and we know that menopause often hits just as women are reaching senior positions. Nearly half of all perimenopausal or menopausal women say it has affected their ability to do their job, their concentration and their confidence. 1 in 10 leave work because of their symptoms. That’s talent British businesses can’t afford to be throwing away.”
Dr Thornton added: “Menopause is protected under the Equality Act of 2010, but many businesses are still grappling with how to support women effectively. Periods are still a taboo subject in the workplace, and we need to cut through that stigma by talking about menstruation, by talking about menopause, in offices, on factory floors, and in boardrooms. If you’re an organisation that cares about wellbeing, you should care about menopause, and you should be looking for ways to support your workforce. Bluecrest Wellness health assessments, especially with this new female hormone test, could be an important part of that picture.”
Supporting women in the workplace isn’t just a matter of doing what’s right—it’s a smart business strategy. Companies that champion women often see stronger team collaboration, higher employee engagement, and enhanced reputations. By adopting the practical approaches outlined in this article, businesses can foster a more inclusive and equitable environment where women are empowered to thrive and reach their full potential.
Here are some of the tips that can help support women in workplace.
1. Flexible Working Hours
Menopause symptoms can be unpredictable, and symptoms can vary. Providing as much flexibility in the workplace can allow women to adapt their work schedules to their health needs, reducing stress and maintaining productivity. By offering flexible working hours options, this can enhance employee loyalty and reduce absenteeism.
2. Menopause Awareness Training
Providing menopause awareness training for managers and staff can reduce stigma in the workplace. Educating the workforce creates a supportive environment where women feel comfortable discussing their experiences. When managers are trained to recognise menopause symptoms and offer appropriate support, it can improves team dynamics and ensure that women don’t feel isolated or misunderstood.
3. Dedicated Menopause Support Policies By introducing policies that provide specific support for menopausal women, such as extra breaks which could either be longer, more frequent, or paid menopause leave. Having these clear policies signal that you as an organisation have acknowledged menopause as a serious health concern. Offering extra breaks or menopause-specific leave ensures that women can manage their symptoms without compromising their work or feeling pressured to perform at full capacity. This can enhance their wellbeing and demonstrates a strong commitment to inclusivity.
4. Physical Workplace Adjustments
Making small adjustments to the physical workspace, like providing fans, easy access to water, or quiet spaces where women can take breaks. Simple changes can make a big difference for women experiencing symptoms like hot flashes or fatigue. By creating a more comfortable physical environment, businesses can help women stay focused and reduce the physical strain of working through menopause.
5. Confidential Support and Counselling
Offer access to confidential counselling services, either through an employee assistance program (EAP) or external resources, where women can seek help for menopause-related concerns. Some women may feel uncomfortable discussing menopause openly. Providing confidential support ensures that everyone has access to the resources they need to manage their symptoms. This promotes good mental wellbeing and reduces the risk of burnout, helping women continue to thrive in the workplace.
By adopting these practical strategies, organisations not only support women during menopause but also build a more inclusive and compassionate workplace, which leads to better employee retention, engagement, and overall success.
