Women experiencing menopause are one of Australia's fastest-growing workforce demographics, but they say shame, stigma and a lack of support is driving them to early retirement.

The impacts of menopause on a woman's career can be profound, with a 2021 study finding 83 per cent of people surveyed said their work had been negatively affected by the hormonal change.

Nearly 60 per cent said managing work during their menopausal transition was "challenging" while almost half struggled with a loss of confidence at work.

More than 40 per cent of women considered retiring or taking a break from work when their menopausal symptoms were severe.

Similarly, a report by the Association of Superannuation Funds of Australia found women who were unable to work during menopause would retire about fiv

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