In our latest episode, Chloe Wheeler, an operations consultant, shares her experience with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and its impact on her career. She discusses the challenges of managing PCOS in the workplace and the adjustments she has made to accommodate her health. Chloe also reflects on the decision to move into consultancy and the freedom it provides for managing her health.
Chloe emphasises the importance of self-awareness, self-advocacy, and understanding one's own health needs. Chloe also discusses the need for open conversations and accommodations in the workplace for individuals with chronic conditions. She highlights the challenges of diagnosis, the importance of nutrition, and the value of community support.
Key Takeaways
PCOS is a complex condition that affects women in various ways, impacting their energy levels, mood and physical health.
The workplace can present challenges for individuals with PCOS, including the need for accommodations, understanding, and flexibility from employers and colleagues.
Mindset, open communication, and understanding from employers and from clients are essential for managing PCOS in the workplace and making career decisions.
Accommodations such as flexible work hours, remote work, and understanding clients have been crucial for Chloe's career and health management. Self-awareness and self-advocacy are crucial for individuals with chronic conditions to navigate their work life effectively.
"It should be a normal part of the conversation, whether that's at interview, whether that's onboarding, whether it’s your monthly one -to -ones."
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Background
07:58 Challenges of Managing PCOS in the Workplace
23:10 Moving into Consultancy and Health Influence
37:19 Normalising Health Conversations in the Workplace
47:55 Understanding Health Patterns and Nutrition
55:45 Community Support and Resources
Thank you, Chloe, for being so open about your journey.
Chloe is currently working on a guest post for InflamMed to complement this podcast episode. In it, she dives deeper and candidly discusses the challenges of managing PCOS in the workplace, from battling the stigma around menstrual health to the exhausting search for effective treatments.
Her story is a powerful reminder that women’s health is not just a women’s issue—it’s a conversation we all need to be part of.
Some of you may have noticed that my video isn’t there. I was trying a new webcam and it all got out of sync! Thankfully, it’s all fixed now.
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