Navigating Menopause for Dentists and Team Members The dental profession is steadily approaching gender parity, with women now accounting for the majority of students enrolled in and graduating from dental schools across Canada. Women also comprise about 98% of the dental hygienist and 99% of dental assistant workforce in this country. However, the impact of menopause on women working in the dental profession is relatively understudied and misunderstood, and the subject is still somewhat stigmatized. This article aims to raise awareness in the dental community about the realities menopausal women encounter in the workplace and to provide dentists and dental team members with ways to support their colleagues during this stage of life. Women’s lives are marked by many physiological milestones. Hormonal changes can have a major impact on body and soul, and menopause is one of these natural phases. As women transition through this biological process, they may experience physical and emotional changes that can impact various aspects of their lives, including their professional life. A range of symptoms may appear in menopause, such as excessive perspiration, irritability, weight fluctuation, fatigue, difficulty falling asleep, hot flashes, mood swings or low morale. A better understanding of these factors can help women handle them more effectively, and to arm themselves with coping mechanisms to accompany them through these changes. Female dentists and team members at the dental office are not exempt from the physical and emotional changes associated with this life transition. Creating a supportive and empathetic environment at the dental office for those going through menopause is crucial for ensuring their well-being and maintaining a positive workplace culture. Female dentists and team members at the dental office are not exempt from the physical and emotional changes associated with this life transition. 29 Issue 3 | 2026 |
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