Women are essential to the Canadian economy, making up 48% of the workforce. Despite this vital role, working women are finding that their health needs are underserved. This is the gender health gap. It is a result of a lack of research and awareness on women’s health.

Sun Life partnered with Ipsos earlier this year to conduct a study. The resulting report, The gender health gap: its impact on working women in Canada, provides insights on workplace supports to address concerning gaps in women’s health.

Why does women’s health need attention?

Women’s physiology means a number of health issues affect them differently than men. They also experience menstruation, pregnancy, menopause, and more. Due to these differences, women require health-care treatments and workplace supports that meet their needs. However, women aren’t getting enough support and access to care, and this is affecting their quality of life.

  • Mental health – over 40% of disability claims for women are for mental health, compared with 30% for men.
  • Menopause – three out of four women experience menopausal symptoms that interfere with daily life.
  • Menstruation – nine out of ten women have been stressed at work due to their period.
  • Heart health – half of women who experience heart attacks have their symptoms go unrecognized.
  • Pregnancy and childbirth – 23% of women who have given birth experience post-partum depression, only 30% of whom receive treatment.

Workplace stigma

Stigma and bias can decrease the chances of a woman accessing care in the workplace. This may be due to embarrassment or feelings of discomfort when seeking help. Or it can be due to a taboo that health issues should be dealt with alone. Because of that, some women change jobs to less demanding roles – or completely give up their jobs. Menopause, for instance, occurs during the prime years of their career growth for many women. It’s imperative for employers to break the silence and stigma around women’s health. This can empower women to effectively manage their health and access care without putting their careers at stake.

What you can do as an employer

Taking active steps towards closing the gap starts with you as the employer. It is crucial for you to advocate for change through conversation and action. Here are some starting points:

  • Workplace benefits flexibility. Provide a customizable plan that lets plan members tailor coverage to their specific life and health stage.
  • Mental health coverage. Ensure that coverage for mental health therapies is enough to cover a full course of treatment. Communicate this coverage availability to employees.
  • Provide access to holistic care. Services like virtual care offer access to mental and physical health care.
  • Employee Assistance Programs. These programs provide valuable support across many aspects of life including work and career, child and elder care, and family and relationships.
  • Clear communications. Let your employees know what specific benefits and coverage levels are available in your workplace. This can help ensure employees are aware of the benefits available to them, before or when they need them.

Sun Life will continue to raise awareness of women’s health issues to help close the gender health gap. Together, we can help Canadian women thrive and help you build a healthier and more productive workforce.

Read our full report to learn more

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