Mariella Frostrup Appointed Menopause Employment Ambassador Amid Rising HRT Use

Journalist and campaigner Mariella Frostrup has been appointed as the UK Government’s Menopause Employment Ambassador, amid a significant increase in the use of hormone replacement therapy (HRT). The appointment was announced to coincide with World Menopause Day, highlighting the government’s commitment to addressing menopause-related challenges in the workplace.

NHS England data reveal that an estimated 2.6 million women received HRT in the 2023/24 period, marking a substantial rise from 1.3 million in 2018/19. Further statistics show that 13 million HRT items were prescribed in the last year, representing a 22% increase over the previous year. These figures underscore the growing demand for HRT, which is used to replace oestrogen, progestogen, or both hormones, thereby alleviating menopausal symptoms such as anxiety, insomnia, and hot flushes.

The rise in HRT usage coincides with increased media attention to menopause, with public figures like Frostrup advocating for better awareness and support for women. Frostrup has been an outspoken advocate for women’s rights in the workplace, and her new role is focused on improving conditions for women experiencing menopause. She takes over from Helen Tomlinson, the first Menopause Employment Ambassador, appointed in March 2023.

In her new capacity, Frostrup is tasked with working alongside employers to enhance workplace support, raise awareness of menopause symptoms, and advocate for the economic contributions of women. Frostrup emphasized the need for action, describing the loss of one in ten women from the workforce, often during peak career years, as economically detrimental and unnecessary.

The Department for Work and Pensions has indicated that a primary objective of Frostrup’s role is to assist women in maintaining and advancing their careers despite menopausal challenges. This focus echoes survey results indicating that over half of working women aged 40 to 60 with menopausal symptoms find these symptoms impair their ability to work.

Frostrup expressed her enthusiasm about the appointment, stating she is “honoured and delighted” to assume the role. She acknowledged the ongoing impact of menopause on women’s careers and committed to continuing the efforts initiated by her predecessor to engage with businesses and drive substantial change.