Navigating Menstrual Health in the Workplace
Understanding the Impact
A recent survey by the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) in the UK has revealed a startling reality: over two-thirds of women experience adverse effects at work due to their menstrual cycles. This survey, encompassing the responses of more than 2,000 women, highlights a significant yet often overlooked issue in workplace environments.
The Stark Reality of Menstrual Health at Work
An alarming 69% of women reported negative work experiences related to menstruation. More than half had to miss work due to period symptoms, with one in five resorting to sick leave. Worryingly, 60% worked even when they felt unwell enough to do so.
However, a mere 10% of these women acknowledged receiving menstrual health support from their organizations. Nearly half never disclosed their menstrual-related absences to their managers, often out of embarrassment or fear of trivialization.
The Greater Struggle for Those with Health Conditions
Women suffering from conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome, premenstrual dysphoric disorder, or endometriosis face even greater challenges, with 81% reporting negative workplace experiences. Their struggles are often dismissed or misunderstood, as Tanya Simon-Hall’s experience demonstrates. Despite suffering from endometriosis and adenomyosis, her symptoms were minimized as “just a period”, leading to unpaid leave and eventual contract non-renewal.
The Silent Suffering Across Age Groups
Kate Muir, author of “Everything You Need to Know About the Menopause,” emphasizes that menstrual health is not just a young woman’s issue. Women undergoing perimenopause face unpredictable and severe period symptoms, a struggle that remains largely unrecognized in workplaces.
The Call for Change
The CIPD report urges workplaces to foster empathy and understanding toward menstrual health. It suggests educating managers on the impacts of period symptoms and breaking the stigma surrounding menstruation. As Clare-Louise Knox of See Her Thrive points out, supporting menstrual health is not only morally right but also beneficial for businesses, leading to lower absenteeism, reduced turnover, and higher job satisfaction.
Moving Forward
As we discuss equality and inclusivity in the workplace, menstrual health must be part of the conversation. It’s crucial for organizations to acknowledge and address the challenges women face due to menstruation, creating a supportive and empathetic work environment for all.