Women’s experience of the impact of work environment during menopause – A qualitative interview study
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: BACKGROUND: Menopause defines a transition in women's lives; it can cause physical, psychological and cognitive symptoms that require adaptation. Research shows that menopause-related symptoms can have a negative impact on women's self-rated productivity and work ability. The work environment can both promote and hinder the individual's ability to do their work. In a Swedish context, knowledge is lacking on how women experience factors in the work environment that affect work ability. Investigating women's experiences can contribute to new knowledge focusing on increasing the working capacity of the group. AIM: To investigate what women in menopause experience as supporting and hindering factors in the work environment. MATERIAL AND METHODS: = 6) and qualitative content analysis. RESULT: Two main categories were identified: The necessity for enhanced awareness and education regarding menopause and Adaptations and recovery opportunities in the work environment. CONCLUSION: Individual adaptation is crucial due to the personalised impact of the work environment. Awareness and knowledge about menopause and an open and flexible organisational culture facilitate necessary adjustments. Recognising the social environment as a supportive factor is essential. Occupational therapy interventions considering the individual in relation to the workplace environment can contribute to sustainable changes.
Authors: Suzanne Johanson Sturesson, Moa Löfgren Bergérus, Linnéa Arvidsson, Christina Andersson
Institutions: University of Gothenburg, Sahlgrenska University Hospital
Language: English
Subfield: Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W4411413898