Women make up over half of the global workforce, but they continue to face unique health challenges in the workplace.
This page is designed to give an overview of some of the health issues which are unique to females and information on ways to support women at work.
Women’s health
Reproductive health
Many women have to cope with a range of symptoms surrounding their reproductive health including painful periods, heavy periods, endometriosis, PMS and (premenstrual syndrome) and PMDD ( pre-menstrual dysphoric disorder).
This NHS link has information on symptoms, treatments, complementary therapies, dietary supplements, lifestyle tips to help and support services.
These powerful videos will give you an idea of what it’s like to live with debilitating conditions such as PMDD and endemetiosis and how and where to find help.
Breast health
This NHS page covers a number of matters relating to breast health including breast pain, breast lumps and breast screening.
Coppafeel (the breast cancer charity) has this self checkout tool, which takes just 2 minutes, to help you to know your normal or recognise any breast changes.
Pregnancy
Being pregnant can be one of the most exciting times in a woman’s life, but it can take its toll on her physical and emotional health.
This NHS page has information on keeping well during pregnancy including diet, exercise and mental health.
Worried about how you will juggle the next 9 months and parenthood alongside work?
This guide from Tommy’s (the pregnancy charity) has information to help including communicating with your line manager, work opportunities while you’re pregnant or going on leave and managing your feelings about pregnancy and work.
Menopause
Menopause is a natural stage of life. The average age for women to reach the menopause in the UK is 51, but this can vary widely.
Please visit the menopause page of this site for resources around this topic.
Guide for Managers
This guide from Workplace Wellbeing Professional highlights a number of women’s health issues that employers should be aware of and consider when developing policies and programs to support the health and well-being of their female employees including reproductive health, stress, mental health, physical health and sexual harrassment.
Here are some steps employers can take:
- Flexible work arrangements.
- Leave policies (time off for medical appointments, treatment, and recovery – compliance with legislation such as the Family and Medical Leave Act.
- Communication: Understand a colleague’s specific needs to best support them. Be sensitive to privacy and only disclose information as necessary to ensure appropriate accommodation and support.
- Identify and implement reasonable accommodations to help them perform their job duties while managing their health .
- Training and awareness on the importance of treating all employees with respect and sensitivity, regardless of their health status.
Overall, it is important for employers to be aware of the unique health needs of their female employees and to offer resources and support to help them maintain their physical and mental well-being.
And some more practical guides with useful tips:
Find out more by reading these articles:
Useful Resources
Our free & confidential Employee Assistance programme We-care is available to you and your household if you need extra support or a phone/online GP appointment.
Tel: 0208 068 0035 Access code: H30174.
Books
Here a just a selection of the many wonderful books available on the subject of women’s health. Click on the image for the link.
Podcasts
Apps
Flo, Clue, Pregnancy +, Know your lemons, Keep a breast and PCOS tracker
(Click on the icons for the links)
Links
UK charity for all those affected by endometriosis, determined to ensure that everyone gets prompt diagnosis and the best treatment and support.
International Association for Premenstrual Disorders
A lifeline of support, information, and resources for women and AFAB individuals with Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) and Premenstrual Exacerbation (PME).
The research and support charity. Every 10 minutes, someone hears the words “you have breast cancer”. That’s why we’re here. And we always will be.
National Association for Premenstrual Syndromes
Charity providing information advice and support to PMS sufferers and their families. Promotes a better understanding of both PMS and its treatment by the medical profession and supports/encourages research where appropriate.
Charity: From period problems and starting a family, to menopause and gynaecological cancers, we are here for women’s gynaecological and reproductive health.