Research & Insights for Workplace Wellbeing

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Understanding the Subjective Experience of Menopause at Work: A Systematic Review and Conceptual Model

Tatiana S. Rowson, Rebecca J. Jones

Journal of Constructivist Psychology

2026 January

DOI: 10.1080/10720537.2025.2465611

Taylor & Francis

Licence Label: CC BY 4.0

This review examines how menopause is experienced at work, focusing on how symptoms, workplace conditions, and individual beliefs interact. Drawing on 22 studies, it shows that experiences are shaped not just by physical symptoms, but by workplace culture, expectations, and social norms. The concept of the “ideal worker” emerges as a key influence, often creating pressure to hide symptoms or maintain performance. Women interpret and respond to these pressures differently, using a range of coping strategies. The paper proposes a conceptual model showing how workplace context and personal meaning combine to influence wellbeing, behaviour, and work outcomes.

This research highlights that menopause at work is shaped by workplace culture and expectations as much as by symptoms themselves

  • Workplace norms, particularly the “ideal worker” expectation, can increase pressure and stress
  • Experiences are influenced by both individual beliefs and organisational context
  • Menopause is often treated as a private issue, placing the burden on individuals
  • Lack of openness and support can lead to stress, reduced confidence, and withdrawal behaviours
  • Women use a range of coping strategies, from seeking support to concealing symptoms
  • Work environments that enable open discussion and adjustments can reduce negative impact
  • Effective support requires addressing both cultural and individual factors, not symptoms alone

© 2025 The Author(s). Published by Taylor & Francis Group, LLC. The original work remains the intellectual property of the authors and publisher. Commentary by The Well Crowd. © The Well Crowd Ltd. 2026. All rights reserved. This content provides a summary and independent commentary on the original research and does not reproduce the original publication. It is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional or medical advice. No part of this content may be reproduced or distributed without prior written permission.

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