If you want to fluster your male manager, the easiest way to do it is probably to tell them you are having a hot flush. Much like talking about cancer used to make colleagues blanch, mentioning the menopause is still a major taboo in our society, and most definitely in our offices.

A quick reminder: the menopause is when a woman stops having periods and usually happens between the age of 45 and 55. Symptoms include the famous hot flushes, poor concentration and memory, tiredness, feeling low/depressed, insomnia, anxiety and lowered confidence. It usually lasts four years, but for some it can continue for up to 12 years.