The Importance of Menstrual Health in the Workplace
Menstrual health is an often overlooked yet crucial aspect of overall well-being that significantly impacts many women in the workforce. Despite progress in gender equality, menstrual health remains a taboo topic, resulting in a lack of support and understanding in professional environments.
Addressing menstrual health in the workplace is not only a matter of basic human rights but also essential for fostering a healthy, productive, and inclusive work environment.
In November 2023 the CIPD launched a Menstruation and support report.
The report examines a survey of over 2,000 women, aged 18-60, who currently or have previously menstruated whilst in employment. The aim of this research is to understand employees’ experiences of menstruation and what support can be most helpful at work.
More than two-thirds experience a negative impact at work due to menstruation symptoms
Around 7 in 10 respondents (69%) who have experienced symptoms from menstruation report that they have had a negative impact at work.
This rises to 81% reporting a negative impact where they have a diagnosed menstrual condition and 82% in the case of a self-diagnosed menstrual condition.
More than half (53%) had been unable to go into work at some point because of their symptoms and for a small minority (4%) this was the case every month.
Just 1 in 5 (20%) always tell their manager that their absence is related to their menstrual cycle
Around half of respondents (49%) said they never tell their manager their absence is related to their menstrual cycle.
When asked why they felt unable to tell their manager the real reason they were unable to go into work, they said it was because that they felt the problem would be trivialised, followed closely by feeling embarrassed and that they prefer to keep the matter private.
Employees feel more supported by colleagues than by their employer or manager
Our findings show that most respondents don’t feel a strong sense of support in their organisation in relation to their menstrual cycle.
People are much more likely to feel supported by colleagues than by their employer or manager (41% compared with 21% and 26%, respectively).
Employees want support but only 12% of organisations provide it
Just over 1 in 10 (12%) of women who responded to the survey report that their organisation provides support for menstruation and menstrual health, for example in the form of a policy, guidance or training.
1 in 5 didn’t know if support was available but two-thirds (67%) said there is no support available.
The most common type of support is free period products (18%) followed by paid sick leave (15%) and paid time off for medical appointments (12%). Any other type of support is even less commonly available.
12% of respondents say their menstrual symptoms have had a negative impact on their career.
Why Menstrual Health Matters in the Workplace:
Enhancing Employee Well-Being: - Menstrual health issues such as severe cramps, heavy bleeding, and conditions like adenomyosis, endometriosis, fibroids & PCOS can cause significant physical and emotional distress that impacts quality of life. Supporting menstrual health helps in reducing pain and discomfort, allowing employees to focus better on their tasks and improve their overall well-being.
Boosting Productivity: - When employees suffer in silence from menstrual health issues, it can lead to increased absenteeism and decreased productivity. Providing support and accommodations for menstrual health can help employees manage their symptoms more effectively, thereby enhancing productivity and reducing time off work.
Promoting Gender Equality: - Ignoring menstrual health in the workplace perpetuates gender inequality. By addressing this issue openly, workplaces can create a more equitable environment where all employees feel valued and supported, regardless of their gender.
Reducing Stigma and Fostering Inclusivity: - Open discussions about menstrual health help to break down the stigma and taboos surrounding menstruation.
This fosters a more inclusive culture where employees feel comfortable discussing their health needs without fear of judgement or discrimination.
Book The Adeno Gang
The Adeno Gang is dedicated to raising awareness about menstrual health issues, particularly those related to adenomyosis. The Adeno Gang offers valuable resources, workshops, and support to help workplaces address menstrual health effectively.
We provide Educational Workshops and talks that inform employees and employers about menstrual health, common conditions, and effective management strategies. These workshops help demystify stigma & taboos surrounding menstruation and promote a more supportive workplace culture.
Menstrual health is a critical aspect of employee well-being that deserves attention and action in the workplace. By addressing menstrual health issues, employers can enhance productivity, promote gender equality, and foster a more inclusive and supportive work environment. Booking The Adeno Gang is a proactive step towards achieving these goals, providing the necessary education, resources, and support to ensure that menstrual health is prioritised in the workplace.
To make a real difference, organisations must take a stand and commit to addressing menstrual health head-on.
Book in a call with me: https://calendly.com/tanya-tvm/30min today and take the first step towards creating a more inclusive workplace for all.
