“It is vital that women have the right information about menopause, so that they can make decisions about their health and well-being because this is not just the end, it is the beginning of a new part of our lives. These are the words of Dr Gwyneth Hinds, an expert in women’s health as staff from across the South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust came together for a menopause awareness event to mark World Menopause Day on Friday, aimed at supporting employee wellbeing.
The event featured a special presentation by Dr Hinds. Topics focused on raising awareness about the signs and symptoms of perimenopause and menopause, as well as how to seek help and manage the transition. Dr Hinds emphasised the importance of a holistic approach, discussing both the benefits and considerations of HRT, lifestyle changes in diet and exercise and the need for tailored advice, as every woman’s menopause journey is different.
The Trust recognises the importance of supporting its largely female workforce, many of whom fall within the 40-55 age group. By providing access to evidence-based information and open discussions around menopause, the Trust aims to destigmatise the topic in the workplace, ensuring staff feel informed, supported and empowered to make the right decisions for their health and well-being.
Delighted to be a Guest Speaker at the event, Dr Hinds said, “In the Health Service we have to remember that women in their forties and fifties are the backbone of our service. Menopause can be difficult and women can have symptoms that actually impact their confidence in the workplace, so it is very important that the workplace supports them. It is vital that women have the right information so that they can make decisions about their health and well-being because this is not just the end, it is the beginning of a new part of our lives. There is life after menopause and there is a lot that we can do, especially in our forties to look after our health and well-being so that we feel well and can continue to thrive.
Dr Hinds continued, “There is a lot of misinformation out there about menopause. Women are becoming a bit more anxious about what they read and they read different things in different places, so it is important that they have information that they can trust which is also relevant to their situation.
“Today’s event focused on the common symptoms of menopause, hot flushes, brain fog, vaginal dryness and vaginal atrophy, what medications are available and also what we can do as far as our lifestyle is concerned. It is important that we relax and restore, doing this will help reduce the symptoms and will actually improve our health in the longer term.”
Disability Services Social Worker, Su Finch who attended the event stated, “I wanted to come along as I was keen to get some information on the menopause. I am fed up with the symptoms and I am finding it all a bit of a mystery. Now that I know I am going through menopause, I really want to get as much information as I can. Events like these are hugely important as they make you feel valued and they are really helpful.”
Social Worker with the Multi-Disciplinary Team, Pauline Green, who organised the event added, “We have been holding community menopause events for nearly three years and many of our staff have been attending. This year, we wanted to do something specifically for our staff and we are thrilled with the response. The event sold out and it is fantastic to see so many of our colleagues here today. We know they will gain valuable insights that will benefit their health and well-being.
“It is very important to destigmatise menopause in the workplace as staff are our most valuable asset. Staff need to feel well in themselves so that they can come to work feeling better and help deliver quality services.”
