Endometriosis in the workplace: Supporting employees
Posted on 25th November 2024 at 10:17
Endometriosis and work: What employers and employees need to know
In our recent Lunch and Learn webinar hosted by Verve Healthcare, endometriosis coach Vicki Hodges from Pausefully shared valuable insights on how endometriosis affects the workplace and what employers can do to support their employees. This article summarises the key points discussed during the webinar, providing essential information for HR managers and employers.
But first - let us share a link to the recording itself:
Understanding endometriosis
Vicki explained that endometriosis is far more than just a menstrual health problem - it's a full-body condition affecting approximately 10% of women in the UK. Endometriosis occurs when tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus, causing inflammation and pain.
Some key facts about endometriosis shared during the webinar include:
It can affect various organs, including the ovaries, bowel, bladder, and even the lungs and brain
Symptoms include excessive menstrual cramps, abnormal bleeding, abdominal bloating ("endo belly"), and fatigue
It can cause infertility in up to 50% of cases
Diagnosis can take 7-10 years, and there is currently no cure
The impact on the workplace
Vicki emphasised that endometriosis significantly affects work life, citing a study by the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD):
50% of women reported reduced productivity
70% felt their employer didn't understand or support them
3% left their job due to the condition
5% considered leaving their job
7% felt discriminated against
Steve highlighted that these statistics underscore the importance of addressing endometriosis in the workplace, not just for employee wellbeing but also for business reasons.
Creating a supportive work environment
The Lunch and Learn provided several strategies for employers to support employees with endometriosis:
Raise awareness: Educate all employees about endometriosis through workplace initiatives and training sessions.
Provide flexible working options: Offer additional breaks, remote work options, or adjusted schedules to accommodate symptoms and medical appointments.
Create a safe space for conversations: Encourage open dialogue about menstrual health and ensure employees feel comfortable discussing their needs.
Implement practical solutions: Consider providing period products in staff toilets, offering access to quiet rooms for rest, and ensuring workplace uniforms are comfortable and accommodating.
Update workplace policies: Include endometriosis in workplace health and wellbeing policies, and provide additional paid leave for medical appointments.
Train managers: Equip managers with the knowledge and skills to have sensitive conversations about endometriosis and provide appropriate support.
Leading by example: Co-op's approach
Vicki highlighted the Co-op as an organisation leading by example in supporting employees with menstrual health problems. The Co-op approach includes:
Flexible working arrangements
Additional paid leave for medical appointments
Free period products in staff toilets
Normalising conversations about menstrual health
The role of endometriosis champions
During the webinar, Vicki introduced her endometriosis champion programmes. These initiatives involve training one or two employees to become go-to resources for endometriosis support within the organisation.
The benefits of supporting employees with endometriosis
It's not just the right thing to do for the individual, making sure employees are supported at work is also essential for business success in terms of:
Improved team morale
Reduced absenteeism
Increased productivity
Greater employee loyalty and retention
A more inclusive and supportive workplace culture
Conclusion
As Steve summarised at the end of the webinar, addressing endometriosis in the workplace is not just about ticking a box; it's about creating an environment where all employees can thrive. Taking proactive steps to understand and accommodate the needs of those with endometriosis, can create a more inclusive, productive, and supportive work environment for everyone.
The Lunch and Learn provided valuable insights into managing endometriosis in the workplace. It emphasised the importance of education, open communication, and practical support in creating a work environment that benefits both employees and employers.
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