Munster Technological University (MTU) recently announced the launch of its pioneering Hormonal Health Policy and accompanying Toolkit, becoming the first Irish university to implement a comprehensive policy and toolkit addressing hormonal health in the workplace in a holistic manner.
Recognising the significant impact hormonal health can have on employees’ wellbeing and work performance, MTU has developed this policy to raise awareness and provide support mechanisms. This umbrella policy aims to create an environment where employees feel confident discussing hormonal health issues and accessing necessary knowledge and resources.
Key Objectives of the Hormonal Health Policy:
- Awareness enhancement: Increase understanding of hormonal health issues and their potential effects on employees’ health, wellbeing, and work capacity.
- Supportive culture: Foster a workplace culture that encourages open conversations about hormonal health, ensuring employees feel comfortable seeking support.
- Support: Recognising the unique experiences of each employee and provide tailored support to those undergoing hormonal health changes.
Complementing the policy, MTU has introduced a detailed Hormonal Health Toolkit designed to offer practical guidance to both employees and managers. This resource covers a wide range of topics, including:
- Understanding various hormonal health conditions such as menopause, andropause, endometriosis, and hormonal health considerations for transgender and non-binary individuals.
- The impact of hormonal health on workplace performance and strategies to manage related challenges.
- Guidelines for employees experiencing hormonal health issues, advice for colleagues on providing support, and recommendations for managers to accommodate and
assist affected staff members.
Prof Maggie Cusack, President of MTU, stated: “At MTU, we are dedicated to being a workplace that values and supports every employee. The introduction of our Hormonal Health Policy and Toolkit is a testament to this commitment, ensuring that our staff have access to the resources and support they need to thrive.”
Prof Margaret Linehan, Head of School of Humanities, Athena Swan Chair & Hormonal Policy Working Group lead at MTU, added: “This policy marks a significant step forward in our efforts to promote inclusivity and understanding in MTU. By addressing hormonal health openly, we are breaking down barriers, removing taboos, and fostering a culture of empathy and support.”
Employees and stakeholders can access the Hormonal Health Policy and Toolkit through the following links: Hormonal Health Policy: MTU- Hormonal-Health-Policy-Final-Draft- 2025-PDF.pdf. Hormonal Health Toolkit: Hormonal-Health-Toolkit-Final- Draft-2025-PDF.pdf.
