Menopause and the Workforce: What EMAS 2026 Means for Employers

Menopause is now being recognized as a workforce issue, not just a clinical one. The European Menopause and Andropause Society (EMAS) recently released their 2026 Healthy Menopause framework. In the framework it links untreated symptoms related to menopause with;

• lower productivity

• more absenteeism

• earlier exits from the labour market

Why menopause matters at work

Women now spend more than a third of their lives after reproduction, when cardiometabolic, bone, sleep, and mood concerns become more common. In the workplace, this can affect hours, advancement, and retention.

In Canada alone, unmanaged menopause symptoms are estimated to cost about $3.5 billion a year, with roughly 540,000 workdays lost.

Key takeaways from EMAS 2026

The framework applies to all employers globally, including here in Canada. It points to: earlier identification, validated digital symptom tools, stronger workplace and healthcare collaboration, and clear standards for menopause apps and platforms. These can be achieve through:

• Flexible schedules

• hybrid options

• cool spaces

• access to water and restrooms

• manager training

These can make a meaningful difference. It also helps to include menopause in wellness plans and review benefits for evidence based care, including menopause hormone therapy (MHT) where appropriate, sleep support, mental health care, and menopause informed clinicians.

EMAS’s 2026 framework reinforces a clear message. Supporting menopausal employees is a health priority and a smart strategy for productivity, equity, and long term retention.

To your best health,

Dr. Amy Tung, ND, MSCP

Naturopathic Doctor | Menopause Society Certified Practitioner