· 80% of female workers believe workplace supports are crucial to managing health concerns including menopause, perimenopause and fertility issues
· 78% of women experiencing menopause state that symptoms interfere with their work
23rd September 2024 – Vhi, Ireland’s leading healthcare provider, has released data that reveals that only 3 in 10 female professionals (30%) believe their employer provides workplace supports for women’s health issues such as menopause, perimenopause and fertility issues.
The research demonstrates a clear divide between the level of support provided by employers and the expectation of employees. 80% of female professionals state that workplace supports are crucial to managing women’s health issues. However, only 43% of women say their workplace has a culture where women are supported to talk about their health.
The Vhi Workplace Health Insights research based on a survey of 1,000 corporate employees was undertaken by Ipsos B&A in August 2023. The research provides key insights into changing attitudes and actions in the workplace around women’s health.
Released in advance of the Vhi Workplace Health Insights online event taking place on 26th September, the research reveals that there are rising levels of awareness and understanding of women’s health issues in the workplace. 74% of female professionals highlight that women’s health issues are becoming easier to discuss. In addition, there has been an increase in the understanding of perimenopause by 8% since 2022 and a 9% increase in awareness of the range of menopausal symptoms.
Despite positive progress, findings reveal that there is an ongoing stigma around women’s health issues in the workplace. 61% of female participants in the workplace say it’s easier to pretend to have a headache than explain they are experiencing a health issue such as menopause or menstruation. Although 78% of women experiencing menopause state that symptoms interfere with their work, only 19% have discussed the condition with their employer.
Enhancing understanding of women’s health issues and increasing supports can have a positive impact on productivity and engagement across organisations. 80% of women highlight that an improved understanding of women’s health issues would enable men to work better with female colleagues. Free sanitary products (38%) are the most frequently offered health support for women by employers. This is followed by agreed time off for female health issues (20%) and healthcare webinars covering women’s health issues (18%).
Vhi provides an extensive range of women’s health services to support healthier and more productive workforces. Vhi’s Women's Health Clinic provides holistic care for women experiencing symptoms of perimenopause and menopause. Corporate programmes can be tailored to ensure the evolving needs of staff are met and includes access to women’s health awareness training, an employee assistance programme, mindfulness and meditation apps, and online dieticians.
Dr Fiona Belton, Clinical Lead for Women’s Health, Vhi, said, “Supporting women’s health in the workplace is key to enhancing wellbeing, engagement and productivity across the workforce. With women facing a unique set of health issues from menopause to fertility, it is crucial that employers provide the workplace policies and supports that pave the way for a healthier professional landscape for women. This research provides an important insight into attitudes and policies around women’s health issues in work and how employers can better meet the needs of their people.
Through the Vhi Women’s Health Clinic we provide an extensive range of healthcare services for women experiencing perimenopause and menopause symptoms, helping them navigate their health journey in the workplace and beyond with confidence.”
Amy Burke, Chief People and Sustainability Officer Vhi said “At Vhi, we are committed to valuing and championing women in the workplace. Part of this commitment is ensuring their health and wellbeing are supported through initiatives such as flexible working arrangements, our women’s network, and mentorship opportunities. We believe that creating a supportive environment enables our female colleagues to thrive professionally and personally. Our recently introduced Menopause Policy is just one example of how we listen to and address the needs of our workforce, ensuring that colleagues can work in a way that supports their health and wellbeing."
The results of Vhi’s Workplace Health Insights research will be discussed at the online event on 26th September. Moderated by Evanne Ní Chuilinn, the event will feature healthcare and HR leaders including Amy Burke, Chief People Officer, Vhi; Lorna Ross, Head of Innovation, Vhi Health & Wellbeing, Vhi and Dr Fiona Belton, Clinical Lead for Women’s Health, Vhi.
For more information on the Vhi Workplace Health Insights findings visit https://www1.vhi.ie/employers/workplace-health-insights/category/womens-health
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Notes to Editor
The Vhi Women’s Health Insights event is taking place online on 26th September from 9.30am-10.15am. More information and registration details can be found here https://business1.vhi.ie/workplacehealthinsights_register
This event will be a virtual panel discussion on women’s health and wellbeing in the workplace and its importance for employers. The panel will explore findings and insights from female employees on their experiences navigating their health and wellbeing in the workplace. Bringing their diverse perspectives, the panel will highlight the opportunities that employers have for enhancing women’s experiences in the workplace.