Workplace Bias, Midlife Health, and the Need for Scientific Language
A new national survey by Aimed Alliance and the HR Research Institute reveals a deep disconnect between awareness of women’s midlife health needs and the workplace systems meant to support them.
Four out of five HR professionals acknowledge that menopause affects women’s careers, yet only 40% of organizations include any menopause-related treatments in their employee health plans.
The findings, published in Understanding the Health Issues of Women in Midlife, describe a familiar pattern:
- 85% of respondents see loss of self-confidence among affected employees.
- 68% report reduced productivity.
- 67% noted decreased workplace engagement.
In other words, the bias is visible – and costly.
The Word “Menopause” Is the Problem
At My28Days, we look deeper.
The trouble begins with the word menopause itself – a term born from 19th-century misunderstanding, not modern endocrinology.
In scientific reality, this stage of life represents Age-related Physiologic Primary Ovarian Insufficiency (Physiologic POI) – a predictable decline in ovarian hormone production, measurable through laboratory testing, and manageable through individualized care.
Treating Physiologic POI as an endocrine deficiency, rather than an emotional stage, changes everything. It brings the conversation back to biology, away from stigma. It invites a practical response: replace what is missing, relieve symptoms, and protect long-term health.
From Bias to Biology…and Better Business
The Aimed Alliance report notes that 68 percent of companies cover prostate screening for men in midlife, but only 40 percent cover hormonal care for women. That imbalance is more than unfair – it’s inefficient. Organizations that integrate midlife women’s health into standard benefits retain experienced leaders, reduce healthcare costs, and strengthen team stability.
With the correct approach, managing age-related Physiologic Primary Ovarian Insufficiency can be as straightforward as managing thyroid or vitamin D deficiency: identify, replace, and maintain.
The rewards are measurable: better cognitive focus, steadier energy, fewer sick days, and higher retention among senior women who carry institutional wisdom.
Equal Opportunity Through Endocrine Truth
Ageism and sexism thrive where science is unclear. When businesses see midlife hormonal change through an accurate physiologic lens, bias gives way to merit. This is not about special programs; it’s about fairness, truth, and cost-effective care.
Menopause is not a diagnosis — it’s a mislabel.
Age-Related Physiologic Primary Ovarian Insufficiency is the fundamental biology – and addressing it sustains both health and leadership.
See the full survey at AimedAlliance:
