How to support a colleague dealing with PCOS

The F Word at Work

Welcome to another episode of The F Word at Work! This is our How to Support Your Colleague series, designed for managers, senior leaders, and HR professionals to gain insights into the challenges colleagues may face while navigating their journeys to parenthood. This episode coincides with PCOS Awareness Month, and we aim to shed light on how PCOS can impact individuals in the workplace.

We’re delighted to welcome Kate Davis, our medical advisor at Fertility Matters at Work. Kate is an independent fertility nurse consultant and the host of The Fertility Podcast. She has been instrumental in raising awareness of various reproductive health challenges, including menstrual health and PCOS.

Here’s a glimpse into our conversation:

• Kate explains what polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is and how it can affect individuals physically and emotionally. She discusses its symptoms, including hormonal imbalances, weight issues, and self-esteem challenges.
• We explore the emotional toll that a PCOS diagnosis can have on individuals, especially regarding their self-esteem and mental health in the workplace. Kate highlights how these factors can impact job performance and overall well-being.
• Kate shares insights on how PCOS is managed, including lifestyle changes and ovulation medications. We discuss the importance of understanding the length of individuals’ journeys and the challenges they may face at work.
• We provide guidance on how individuals can approach conversations with their managers about PCOS. Kate offers practical language to use, emphasising that it’s okay to maintain privacy while still seeking support.
• We discussed the need for employers to foster an inclusive environment that acknowledges the complexities of reproductive health issues. Kate encourages open dialogue and understanding to better support colleagues.

Thank you to Kate for sharing her expertise and insights on this important topic. We encourage you to explore her resources and continue the conversation about PCOS in the workplace.

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