Menstrual health, perimenopause and menopause can affect people in different ways. Symptoms may impact your wellbeing, confidence and working life.

If symptoms are affecting you at work, support is available. You do not need to manage this on your own.

You can speak to your line manager, Human Resources (HR), Occupational Health or another support service to discuss your needs and any adjustments that may help.

Menstrual health is an important part of overall wellbeing. While some people experience few symptoms, others may have symptoms that affect their daily activities and work.

Common symptoms include:

• abdominal cramps
• back pain
• headaches or migraines
• fatigue
• bloating
• mood changes
• anxiety or irritability
• difficulty concentrating

If your symptoms are severe, persistent or affecting your quality of life, consider seeking advice from your GP or healthcare professional.

Some health conditions can have a greater impact on day-to-day life and work. These include:

• Endometriosis
• Adenomyosis
• Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
• Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)
• Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD)
• heavy menstrual bleeding

If you have a diagnosed condition, or think you may have one, support is available to help you manage its impact on your wellbeing and work.

Perimenopause is the stage leading up to menopause. During this time, hormone levels change and symptoms can begin to develop.

Menopause happens when periods stop permanently. The age and experience of menopause varies from person to person.

Symptoms can change over time and may range from mild to severe.

Common symptoms include:

• hot flushes
• night sweats
• sleep problems
• fatigue
• anxiety
• low mood
• memory problems
• difficulty concentrating or "brain fog"
• headaches
• joint and muscle aches
• irregular periods
• changes in confidence or self-esteem

Some people experience symptoms for several years. Others may notice only minor changes.

If menstrual health, perimenopause or menopause symptoms are affecting your work, speak to your manager or another support service as early as possible.

Having a conversation about your needs can help identify support that may make work more comfortable and manageable.

Support may include:

• flexible working arrangements where appropriate
• temporary adjustments to duties or workloads
• additional rest breaks
• access to drinking water and suitable workplace facilities
• adjustments to workplace temperature where possible
• regular wellbeing discussions
• advice from Occupational Health

Any adjustments should be based on individual circumstances and reviewed regularly to make sure they remain helpful.

Support available

You can access support from:

• your line manager
• Human Resources (HR)
• Occupational Health
• Employee Assistance Programme (EAP)
• Mental Health First Aiders
• Endometriosis Champions

You may also wish to seek advice from your GP or another healthcare professional.

Managers play an important role in creating a supportive and inclusive workplace.

When supporting an employee, managers should:

• encourage open and respectful conversations
• maintain confidentiality where appropriate
• listen without judgement
• focus on the individual's circumstances and needs
• consider reasonable workplace adjustments
• review support arrangements regularly
• signpost employees to available support services

A supportive approach can help employees manage symptoms while remaining engaged and productive at work.

Menopause awareness resources are available to help managers build confidence when supporting employees.

These resources provide practical guidance for workplace conversations, adjustments and ongoing support.

Further guidance is available within the Council's Menopause Policy.

NHS resources

• Choosing period products
• Endometriosis information
• Menopause information
• Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) information
• Menopause information
• Women's health information

National Wellbeing Hub

The National Wellbeing Hub provides information and practical guidance on:

• Menstrual health and menopause
• Information and resources
• Definitions and symptom guidance
• Workplace adjustment guidance
• Support and resources for line managers

If symptoms are affecting your wellbeing or your work:

1. Speak to your manager or a support service.
2. Discuss any adjustments that may help.
3. Seek medical advice if symptoms are severe, persistent or concerning.
4. Review the support available through Council wellbeing services.

Early conversations can help ensure the right support is put in place.