Going through the stages of menopause? It can be a challenging time, especially when solutions seem out of reach. But there is no need to suffer in silence anymore.
With plenty of resources and treatments available, you can get what you need to manage your symptoms. Follow along for tips on the importance of education, how to take advantage of your benefits plan and more.
It's never too early to learn about menopause.
Some Canadian organizations that offer free menopause resources include:
In addition to finding resources, joining a community can help you feel supported, reduce isolation and empower you to take charge of your health.
Whether you're looking for more flexibility, wondering what benefits cover or need your manager to know what you're dealing with, here's how you can bring it up:
Starting the conversation:
"I wanted to let you know I'm going through menopause. Some of the symptoms, like sleep disruption and fatigue, can be unpredictable, and I'm doing my best to manage them. I thought it was important you were aware in case it ever affects my performance at work."
Asking for support:
"I'd like to find out if there are any options for flexibility. Would it be possible to adjust my schedule or work remotely on days when I'm not feeling my best?"
Your benefits plan is one of the most valuable tools available to support you through menopause. It can help you cover the cost of treatments and connect you with resources that make it easy to find care. Discover how:
Recommended support is based on evidence from the North American Menopause Society1, the Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada2 and the Canadian Menopause Society3.
Hot flashes, night sweats, sleep, mood issues, vaginal and urinary symptoms of menopause and prevention of bone loss.
Where it’s typically covered in your planCore benefits (prescription drug coverage)
Additional informationHormone therapy replaces female hormones, primarily estrogen and progestogens, that are lost during the menopause transition. MHT is the most effective treatment for vasomotor symptoms, like hot flashes. Estrogen products available in Canada include oral, gels, patches and local vaginal estrogen therapy.
Moderate to severe hot flashes and night sweats.
Where it’s typically covered in your planCore benefits (prescription drug coverage)
Additional informationA non-hormonal prescription drug treatment option.
Mood changes, sleep issues, hot flashes.
Where it’s typically covered in your planCore benefits (prescription drug coverage)
Additional informationMay include antidepressants, gabapentinoids or oxybutynin. Consider if MHT is contraindicated.
Vaginal discomfort, irritation.
Where it’s typically covered in your planCore benefits (prescription drug coverage)
Additional informationOften local estrogen creams, tablets or rings.
24/7 access to health care providers.
Where it’s typically covered in your planVirtual Care (if included in your plan)
Additional informationOffers convenient and confidential support from anywhere, anytime. This service includes mental health support and access to medical advice, prescription refills, referrals and more.
Mood swings, stress, pain, anxiety, sleep disruption and behaviour change.
Where it’s typically covered in your planExtended health benefits
Additional informationProvided by a registered psychologist or social worker. CBT is a type of psychotherapy that helps with negative or irrational thoughts, feelings and behaviours.
Confidential mental health support.
Where it’s typically covered in your planEFAP (if included in your plan)
Additional informationAn EFAP provides access to practical tools and confidential counselling, offering support for burnout, anxiety, depression and hormonal health.
Vaginal and urinary symptoms of menopause such as pelvic pain and bladder concerns.
Where it’s typically covered in your planExtended health benefits
Additional informationIf other treatments don’t work or hormone therapy isn’t an option, patients with vaginal and urinary symptoms of menopause may be referred to a pelvic physiotherapist for care.
Healthy eating guidance, weight management.
Where it’s typically covered in your planExtended health benefits (if included in your plan) or Health Spending Account (HSA)
Additional informationMaintaining a healthy weight can reduce menopause symptoms.
Irregular periods.
Where it’s typically covered in your planWellness Spending Account (WSA)
Additional informationCovered if your WSA includes personal care products or health supports.
Weight management, menopause symptoms.
Where it’s typically covered in your planWellness Spending Account (WSA)
Additional informationMay include gym passes, aerobics classes or wellness apps.
This guide encourages employers to consider how their organization can provide support to women experiencing menopause.
How overlooking menopause in the workplace negatively impacts business, the national and global economy and progress toward gender equity.
Learn the basics of menopause, including the different stages, symptoms and duration.
There's no need to suffer in silence anymore. This section shares the different proven treatments available, how health benefits can help and more.
Discover how leaders can offer meaningful support to employees experiencing menopause and create a workplace where women can succeed at every stage of life.
Want to learn more about women's health? Visit our women's health and wellness page for practical support for your or your employees' health and wellbeing.
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