Menopause

At LJMU we hope to create an environment where menopause is discussed openly, and where staff are fully supported on their journey. It has been 12 months since the launch of our Staff Menopause Policy which advises line managers on the support available, and signposts places to seek additional support, both for those experiencing symptoms and those wishing to support someone going through the menopause. 

With around 13 million women in the UK currently experiencing the physical and emotional effects of menopause, it’s vital that we encourage conversations without shame, especially in the workplace.

Menopause occurs when a woman stops having periods and is no longer able to fall pregnant naturally. Periods will usually become less frequent over the course of a few months or years before they stop completely, sometimes this can happen suddenly.

Menopause is a natural part of ageing that typically occurs between the age of 45 and 55, when oestrogen levels begin to decline. On average in the UK, women start menopause at 51, however, 1 in 100 women experience menopause before the age of 40 and this is known as premature menopause or premature ovarian insufficiency.

Menopause can be an unsettling time. Most women will experience menopausal symptoms, which can be managed, while some can be quite severe and impact day-to-day life.

Common symptoms to be aware of include:

  • Difficulty sleeping
  • Hot flushes and headaches
  • Low mood, anxiety or depression
  • Problems with memory and concentration

Use the Symptoms Questionnaire to monitor your symptoms and keep track of changes.

Some problems may occur after menopause, such as osteoporosis, breast changes and heart disease.

The following treatments and lifestyle changes may help with symptoms:  

  • Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) - tablets, skin patches, gels and implants that relieve symptoms by replacing oestrogen
  • Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) - talking therapy that can help with low mood or anxiety
  • Eating a healthy and balanced diet
  • Reducing caffeine or alcohol intake
  • Regular exercise, such as yoga (Tuesday lunchtime sessions available - book via LJMU Sport app on Google Play or App Store). 

If you are experiencing the symptoms of menopause (especially before the age of 45), it may be worth speaking to your GP. They will usually take a blood test to measure your hormone levels and discuss what treatments are available.

Throughout the year, we hold various menopause-themed sessions for you to get involved. You may be interested in attending or supporting a Menopause Café, which we hold 4 times a year and can be booked via the Staff Events page.

You can also request to join the Menopause Matters Team Group.

If you have any ideas, suggestions or feedback or would like further advice, please contact Menopause Matters. 

Resources to support menopause

Employee Assistance Programme (EAP)

Staff can use the Vivup EAP service to speak to a trained counsellor 24/7, 365 days a year. To access the support line, call 0330 380 0658 and mention you are LJMU staff or visit the website.