Perimenopause Protections in the Workplace

By Jack Tuckner

As professionals, we often discuss various workplace protections, but one critical topic that's frequently overlooked is perimenopause. This natural life stage affects millions of women, yet many are unaware of their rights and protections in the workplace.

Let's change that.

Understanding Perimenopause

Perimenopause, the transition to menopause, can start as early as 35 and last up to 10 years. For women in high-pressure, high-salary positions, the symptoms can be particularly challenging:

• Insomnia, affecting your ability to make crucial decisions

• Brain fog and difficulty concentrating, impacting your sharp mental acuity

• Mood swings, potentially influencing team dynamics

• Hot flashes, occurring during important presentations or meetings

These symptoms aren't just inconveniences – they can feel like threats to the career you've worked so hard to build. Moreover, they represent significant changes in bodily functions, particularly the endocrine system, which further qualifies them for protection under the ADA.

Your Rights and Legal Protections in the Workplace

Here's what every woman leader needs to know: Your perimenopausal symptoms are protected under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) because the symptoms can substantially affect "major life activities" and "bodily functions."

Specifically:

1. Sleeping: Insomnia and night sweats can significantly disrupt your sleep patterns.

2. Concentrating: Brain fog and memory issues can affect your ability to focus on complex tasks.

3. Thinking: Hormonal changes can impact cognitive function and decision-making abilities.

4. Communicating: Mood swings and irritability can affect your interactions with colleagues and clients.

5. Regulating body temperature: Hot flashes can interfere with your comfort and concentration in the workplace.

6. Endocrine system function: Perimenopause fundamentally affects the endocrine system, which regulates hormones crucial for numerous bodily functions.

Because these symptoms affect these major life activities and bodily functions, they fall under ADA protection.

This means:

1. Your condition is legally recognized and protected.

2. You have the right to reasonable accommodations in the workplace.

3. You cannot be discriminated against for requesting or using these accommodations.

Taking Action

If you're experiencing perimenopausal symptoms that affect your work:

1. Don't suffer in silence: Raise the issue with your HR department or supervisor.

2. Request accommodations: This could include flexible working hours, additional breaks, or adjustments to your work environment.

3. Know your rights: Understand that you can't be penalized for requesting support.

A Call to Employers

Employers, it's time to step up. Proactively educate your workforce about perimenopause and offer support without waiting for employees to ask. This not only ensures compliance with legal requirements but also fosters a more inclusive and supportive work environment.

Breaking the Taboo

It's time to normalize conversations about perimenopause in the workplace. By speaking up and advocating for ourselves and others, we can create more supportive, understanding work environments for all.Remember, your health and well-being matter. Don't let perimenopause derail your career – know your rights and use them to thrive in the workplace.

Jack Tuckner

To learn more about your rights and how to protect them, email info@womensrightsny.com