The medical definition of the menopause is when a woman has her last menstrual period. It usually occurs between 45 and 55 years of age, although it can occur any time up to a women's mid-60s.
A premature menopause can occur, with periods stopping before the age of 40, either naturally or as an effect of a medical condition or its treatment.
Women in mid and older life are returning to work or staying in work longer. In fact, women aged 50 to 64 have been the fastest-growing demographic in the workplace for decades, although this is the highest proportion of women affected by menopausal symptoms.
Six in 10 menopausal women say their symptoms have had a negative impact on their work.
It is important to remember that people experiencing menopausal symptoms require the same support and understanding from their employer as anyone experiencing any ongoing health condition.
The current most relevant legislation covering menopause is the Equality Act 2010. The protected characteristics relevant to menopause are age, sex and disability.
There is also the 1974 health and safety at work legislation. This puts a duty of care on employers and failing to look after menopausal women could be argued as breach of this law.
Watch a video explaining menopause from the British Menopause Society.
We're also working with Orcha, to provide a library of digital health and welling support. Search ORCHA for menopause support apps.