Filenews 30 January 2026 - by Theodora Nikolaou
A proposal for a law to establish a framework for the support of women during the perimenopause, menopausal and postmenopausal phases, was submitted to the Parliament by Charalambos Theopemptou.
The proposal, entitled "Women's Support during Menopause Law of 2025", aims to create a comprehensive framework for identifying, informing, protecting and supporting women experiencing menopause-related biological changes, with the aim of protecting their health, well-being and ensuring their equal participation in social and professional life.
According to the proposed law, menopause is officially recognized as a normal biological transition with potentially significant physical, mental and social consequences, while at the same time it is treated as an issue of gender equality.
Work facilities and prohibitions
Particular emphasis is placed on working conditions, with the proposal obliging employers, public and private, to receive reasonable and proportionate facilities for employees who are affected in their functionality or health, without a reduction in salary or other adverse consequences. Discrimination due to menopause is equated, for the purposes of the law, with discrimination on the basis of gender and health status.
Reasonable accommodations are determined following a dialogue between the employee and the employer, based on the needs of the employee and the capabilities of the business. The employer may, if required, request a certificate from a health professional, without the need for detailed medical data, in order to ensure the protection of privacy. Furthermore, the proposed law prohibits any adverse treatment, dismissal, transfer, downgrading or other professional restriction due to menstruation or menopause or biological changes related to menopause, or the application and use of reasonable facilities.
The draft law also provides for information and training obligations for employers and human resources executives, as well as awareness-raising actions in workplaces and educational institutions, with the aim of removing stereotypes and social stigma associated with menopause.
The Department of Labour Inspection is responsible for supervising the implementation of the law, providing for inspections and administrative sanctions in cases of non-compliance, including the imposition of an administrative fine of up to €3,000.
A National Menopause Support Line would be created
At the same time, provisions are established for universal and equal access to scientifically documented information and health services, with the obligation of public and private health structures to provide guidance, counselling and clinical support, as well as referral to specialized services where required. The Ministry of Health is called upon to implement programs for information, prevention and public awareness, as well as training of health professionals. An important provision is also the creation of a National Menopause Support Line, as a central point of information, guidance and psychological support.
Support Plan for the Treatment of Menopausal Symptoms
Furthermore, the Council of Ministers is given the possibility of approving a Support Plan for the treatment of menopausal symptoms, which may include grants for psychological support services, exercise programs, physical well-being and symptom management, or for other services or interventions that scientifically contribute to the treatment of menopausal symptoms. The amount of the grant, the eligible costs and any other details are determined by the Plan itself, as approved by the Council of Ministers.
The implementation of key provisions of the proposed law is expected to begin six months after its enactment, so that the stakeholders can prepare for its implementation and the operation of the Support Line.
According to the explanatory memorandum signed by the rapporteur of the draft law, a new protection and support framework is introduced, harmonized with international best practices, contributing substantially to the improvement of the health, well-being and social integration of women in Cyprus.
