[The following article was submitted by Local 60005 (CFIA & AAFC Moncton, NB) who have been doing some amazing work raising awareness around the issue of menopause in the workplace lately.]
The Menopause Foundation of Canada launched a campaign, Menopause Works Here, to inform people about what is a medical condition that in some way will affect each and every one of us (whether we experience it or support someone through it). Their website has great support materials for employers and managers about ways to make the workplace more inclusive for people suffering from this medical condition, and support for when it feels like they are losing their minds and even more so, losing themselves.
People are not educated on menopause, not like we are for menstruation and pregnancy. We don’t talk about it, at least, not often seriously. But we all need to remember that menopause is a medical condition and it lasts on average 5 to 7 years. It could be longer or shorter, if you’re lucky.
Considering all the allowances a workplace makes for pregnancy, there is not one specific allowance for menopause. Something just as physically and mentally draining, more so really because it lasts TEN times longer.
The recommendations to support people in menopause at the workplace are simple and inexpensive; a desk fan, flexible schedule, flexible break times or combining breaks for example. But one message rings loud and clear; honest and open discussion is the way to provide each individual the support they need.
The Menopause Foundation of Canada is just one resource. There is also the International Menopause Society and the Canadian Menopause Society.
International Menopause Day is October 18th, 2026. I encourage you to do some menopause research that day, for those in the thick of it, find a way to celebrate yourself.
I apologize to the people reading this that are experiencing menopause, or have or will, that do not identify with the gendered terms used on these websites. Please know that you deserve equal care and support.
-Chantal Cormier, Treasurer, AU Local 60005