Menopause

This page provides information about the menopause for staff and managers including a policy, guidance and useful resources.  

The University is committed to supporting all staff who are directly or indirectly affected by the symptoms associated with the menopause. We recognise that for some staff the symptoms of the menopause will affect their comfort and performance at work. We want to have an open and understanding workplace where employees can raise and discuss menopause their managers. We aim to provide appropriate support and adjustments.

The policy and guidance have been developed as part of the University’s commitment to provide an inclusive and supportive environment for all staff. Each individual will experience the transition through the menopause differently and not everyone will experience symptoms. There are some general good practice approaches that can help to make the experience easier.

The policy and guidance should be interpreted alongside other available information (including medical advice) that relates to an individual's particular circumstances.

• Menopause policy
• Menopause manager guidance

There are many sources of support offered at the University of Edinburgh and this link provides an overview of the health and wellbeing support offered. Some are highlighted as follows

• Occupational Health Service
• Equality, Diversity & Inclusion webpages
• Guidance on Supporting Disabled Staff (including Staff Disability Advice Service)

Other Useful Resources

• NHS guidance on menopause 
• Equality Human Rights Commission - Menopause information - explainer videos for supporting employees 
• Advance HE Guidance for HEIs on supporting staff through menopause  
• Henpicked menopause HUB offering guidance, resources and podcasts including how to talk to your GP about Menopause
• The Balance app offers symptoms tracker and downloadable expert guidance
• The Daisy Network  support with Premature Ovarian Insufficiency which can cause early menopause
• Menopause Café is where people gather to eat cake, drink tea and discuss menopause
• Menopause Matters provides information including treatment options.
• Menopause resources for LGBTQIA+ people provides information for those who identify as LGBTQIA+

The slides are now available from our recent menopause awareness session with Lyndsay Harrison. Please see the link below. 

Menopause Education Session 2024 (9.65 MB PowerPoint)