KARACHI: Experts have stressed the need to raise awareness about menopause and encourage open conversations in workplaces, highlighting its impact on women’s health, professional growth and workplace well-being.
The views were expressed at an event organised by Standard Chartered Pakistan in Karachi to mark World Menopause Day. The event was attended by bank officials, business leaders, industry representatives and healthcare experts.
Speakers said menopause was not merely a health and well-being issue but also had implications for women’s professional lives, workplace performance and career progression. They emphasised that organisations should address the stigma and misconceptions surrounding menopause and introduce measures to support women experiencing this stage of life.
Adil Salahuddin, Chief Executive Officer and Head of Coverage at Standard Chartered Pakistan, said menopause was closely linked to workplace inclusion and the retention of experienced employees.
He noted that many women experience menopause at a crucial stage in their careers, when they hold leadership positions, manage teams and contribute significantly to organisational growth. He stressed the need to create an environment where women could continue to perform their professional responsibilities and advance their careers without being compelled to manage health-related challenges in silence.
Yasir Khawaja, Head of Human Resources at Standard Chartered Pakistan, said creating an inclusive workplace required recognising the real-life challenges employees faced at different stages of their lives.
He observed that menopause remained a subject that was rarely discussed openly, particularly in the region. Greater awareness and honest conversations, he said, could help organisations build an environment where women felt supported in continuing their professional journeys.
A panel discussion titled “The Conversations We Don’t Usually Have” was also held during the event. It was moderated by Iram Alizai, Head of Corporate Affairs, Brand and Marketing at Standard Chartered.
The panel featured Tazeen Hussain, Associate Professor of Practice at Habib University, actor and host; Dr Sheeza Mohsin, executive coach, counsellor and corporate wellness consultant; and Dr Nida Najmi, Assistant Professor in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology at Aga Khan University Hospital.
The discussion addressed common misconceptions about menopause, its physical and emotional effects, and the challenges women may face at work during this stage of life. Participants also discussed how colleagues, managers and organisations could provide practical support to affected employees.
Standard Chartered Pakistan said its broader workplace inclusion strategy included menopause-related awareness initiatives, guidance and training materials, workplace support measures and flexible working arrangements.