Mikelle and Michelle are on a mission to shatter the silence surrounding perimenopause and menopause in the workplace.
[KITCHENER, ONTARIO, CANADA – October 18, 2023] – This Is Perimenopause, a groundbreaking initiative founded by Mikelle and Michelle, is on a mission to shatter the silence surrounding perimenopause and menopause in the workplace. Their journey began after enduring more than five years of debilitating symptoms in solitude, only to discover that countless women were grappling with similar challenges. Recognizing the power of shared experiences and community support, they embarked on a mission to transform the landscape for (peri)menopausal women in the workforce.
Nearly one in five women has either left their jobs or contemplated quitting due to the profound impact of (peri)menopausal symptoms on their professional lives. This unaddressed issue threatens to cost the global economy over $150 billion annually, according to research by global consulting firm Frost & Sullivan.
As companies worldwide commit to fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion, the hidden burden of menopause in the workplace demands immediate attention. Recent data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics highlights that 26% of the workforce, or 41 million individuals, are (peri)menopausal women aged over 40, marking one of the fastest-growing demographics in the workplace.
Additionally, a study has revealed that up to 40% of (peri)menopausal women experience weekly disruptions in their work performance due to symptoms such as hot flashes, brain fog, sleep disturbances, and anxiety, among more than 30 recognized symptoms.
Many women feel compelled to conceal reproductive health challenges, fearing they might be perceived as weak or past their prime. Melissa*, a Senior Equity Analyst and a member of the This Is Perimenopause Community, expressed her concerns: "I've worked too hard; I can't show any weakness at work. I don't want to give anyone another reason to think that women are less competent."
The pivotal step toward creating a menopause-friendly workplace is open communication and education, and This Is Perimenopause is at the forefront of this transformation. The initiative is sparking a long-overdue conversation about menopause, breaking down the ageism and sexism that have historically silenced the topic, thereby stifling support and understanding for women.
This Is Perimenopause has set out to build an online platform that offers women a supportive community and vital information. Their mission, initiated just over a year ago, is to assure women that they are not alone in their experiences, that their symptoms and feelings are valid, and that they deserve and should demand the support and solutions necessary to thrive.
This Is Perimenopause is now live and accessible to women seeking solace, camaraderie, and insights as they navigate the complex terrain of perimenopause and menopause. Through their shared stories and candid perspectives, Mikelle and Michelle are paving the way for a more informed, empowered, and supported transition.
