New guide aims to improve workplaces for women experiencing menopause

A new guide offers employers concrete steps to better support employees going through menopause, following research showing over a quarter of women experience severe symptoms that impact their work. The initiative, developed by Kvinder i Sund Overgang (Women in Healthy Menopause, KISO) at the University of Copenhagen, was created in collaboration with Danish Standards, the consultancy Hormoner på Arbejde (Hormones at Work), and the association Kvinder & Sundhed (Women & Health).

Research leader Lasse Gliemann of KISO emphasised that menopause significantly affects many women’s daily lives, including their work. “We hear from many women that they face challenges in their professional lives that can be difficult to manage,” Gliemann said.

The guide outlines practical measures across four key areas: physical workspace adjustments, work scheduling, psychological work environment, and organisational support. Proposed changes include access to fresh air and cooler areas, flexible meeting times, adjustable lighting, and uniforms adapted to “the changing female body.” Employers are also encouraged to foster open communication about individual needs without pressure for explanation and to establish clear guidelines for small, everyday accommodations.

Gliemann acknowledged that implementation may vary by workplace. “This isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution,” he said, noting that sectors like cleaning services could focus on adapting uniforms, while office environments might prioritise flexible scheduling. He stressed that the most critical step is for employers to recognise and validate the challenges tied to menopause.

When asked whether the guide simply describes a good general work environment, Gliemann responded: “If that’s the case, it’s unfair to employers. Both women and companies are asking for this.”

The full guide is available here (Danish).