What if your hot flashes, brain fog, or total exhaustion were treated like real issues at work? Guess what? In one state, they finally are!
Rhode Island is making history.
As of June 2025, Rhode Island became the first state in the U.S. to require workplaces to support women going through menopause. That’s right—menopause at work is now taken seriously. And honestly, it’s about time!
Let’s talk about what this means, why it matters, and how it can help working women everywhere.
Menopause Isn’t Easy
If you’ve been through it, you know. Hot flashes that make you feel like you’re sitting in an oven. Brain fog that makes you forget why you walked into the room. Mood swings. Sleep troubles. Feeling completely wiped out during the day. And trying to deal with all that while working? It’s tough.
Until now, most jobs didn’t really offer help for women dealing with menopause. Maybe you brought in a desk fan or wore lighter clothes. But real support? Not really there.
What’s Rhode Island Doing?
Starting June 24, 2025, Rhode Island changed the rules. Employers now have to make “reasonable” changes at work to help employees going through menopause or menopause-like symptoms. That includes job applicants too!
These changes are now part of the Rhode Island Fair Employment Practices Act. Before, it only covered things like pregnancy. Now, it includes menopause too. Pretty cool, right?
So, What Does “Support” Look Like?
Great question! Here are some examples:
- Hot flashes and sweating: Employers can provide desk fans, cooler rooms, or even more relaxed dress codes.
- Fatigue and sleep issues: Night sweats make sleeping hard, so flexible work hours, work-from-home options, or part-time schedules can really help.
- Brain fog and memory troubles: Things like written instructions, extra time to complete tasks, and helpful check-ins from your manager can make a big difference.
- Mood swings: A kind and supportive work environment is key. That means no jokes about menopause and access to mental health support when needed.
- Education: Managers and HR teams need training so they understand what menopause is and how to support their team members.
And here’s something important—Rhode Island now requires workplaces to post information about these rights. So women don’t have to guess or whisper about it in the break room. It’s all out in the open.
Why This Matters
Menopause affects a lot of women, and many feel like they have to just “deal with it” at work. But that’s not fair. These symptoms are real, and they can impact job performance, energy, and confidence.
Some women even cut back their hours or quit their jobs because it gets too hard. That’s a huge loss—for the women and for the companies that lose experienced, talented workers.
This new law in Rhode Island is saying, “Hey, women’s health matters here.” And that’s a big step forward.
What’s Next?
This is just the beginning. Rhode Island is leading the way, but more states need to follow. Every workplace should make room for women to feel comfortable, supported, and respected—no matter what stage of life they’re in.
Let’s keep pushing for that kind of progress.
Going Through Menopause and Working? You’re Not Alone.
If you’re dealing with menopause and still showing up to work every day—go you! You’re strong, and you deserve support.
To help you feel your best, we’ve created a free guide: The Menopause Lifestyle Checklist!
It’s full of simple tips and helpful steps to boost your energy and take care of your body during menopause.
👉 Click this link to grab your free copy!
In the meantime, keep your fan nearby, stay comfy, and don’t forget—you’ve earned the right to ask for what you need.
Let’s make every workplace a better place for women.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.