According to Hertility's 2026 Workplace Report, two in three female employees who are told their fatigue and anxiety are 'just part of life' received a new clinical diagnosis. The diagnoses ranged from polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), thyroid disorders and pelvic issues. More than one-third (37%) of the total screened workforce had at least one hormone out of range, impacting mood, metabolism, and cognitive function.
Deirdre O’Neill, Co-founder of Hertility, stated, 'For too long, women have been told their symptoms are normal, emotional or just part of life. ' The report found that 64% of female employees were logging an average of five concurrent symptoms each, ranging from fatigue and anxiety to pain, brain fog and low mood. 6%) report chronic fatigue as their primary workplace barrier.
For too long, women have been told their symptoms are normal, emotional or just part of life. That narrative has allowed clinical gaps to persist for decades.
5%) are living with symptoms indicative of undiagnosed iron deficiency anaemia. Georgia Butler, 38, had been struggling with extreme period pain since she was 10 years old and was eventually diagnosed with extensive endometriosis, PCOS and adenomyosis. She recalled, 'As I entered the workforce, the struggle intensified.
' O’Neill emphasized, 'The data now makes one thing clear: unmanaged biology is costing businesses talent. ' However, the specific actions businesses, insurers, and governments are taking to address these health issues remain unclear.
The data now makes one thing clear: unmanaged biology is costing businesses talent. If we want healthier teams and sustainable growth, we need to stop minimising symptoms and start diagnosing them.