It is well-known that there can be many challenges around menstruation and menstrual health, especially for women who suffer from Endometriosis, PCOS, Fibroids and other chronic health conditions. What isn’t discussed is the impact that this can have on working life.
Many of you reading this will know that these experiences aren’t only limited to women who suffer from Menstrual Disorders. It is estimated that around 80% of the menstruating workforce experience period pain at some stage, with PMS symptoms affecting around 75% of women, and with research showing period pain can be as “bad as having a heart attack”, it’s not always something that a couple of pain-killers can fix.
Menstrual Challenges in the Workplace
More than two-thirds of women endure work-related challenges due to menstruation symptoms, leading to a significant 53% missing work. Surprisingly, almost half of employees choose not to share the reason for menstrual-related absences, emphasizing the persisting taboo in the workplace.
There have been efforts to bring this issue to the forefront recently, such as when Spain became the first European country to entitle workers to take paid menstrual leave. However, Marian Baird, a professor of gender and employment relations at the University of Sydney, commented:
“Opponents are worried menstrual leave will reinforce negative gender stereotypes and notions of biological determinism, leading to more employer discrimination against women.”
Giving women a choice
As always, the answer lies in giving women a choice. If someone is so unwell during their period that they are unable to work, this shouldn’t affect their career trajectory and prospects. But it is also equally true that when menstruators are working whilst going through one of the most difficult times of the month, they should be fully supported and catered for.
Caroline Nokes, the chair of the Commons women and equalities select committee, said “Women had told the committee how they were not listened to and basically told to “suck it up”, and that for some women even access to decent toilet facilities was difficult”.
It is clear that companies need to tackle the many stigmas surrounding period symptoms at work, with CIPD’s senior resourcing and inclusion adviser noting:
“Menstruation is a natural part of many employees’ lives, and it shouldn’t be a barrier to success or wellbeing.”
Supporting the menstrual health of your employees isn’t just a nice thing to do, it makes business sense as well, as according to the Chief Executive of the training provider See Her Thrive:
“Workplaces championing menstrual health witness lower absenteeism, reduced turnover rates, and higher job satisfaction”.
Luna - here to eclipse period prejudice! 🌝
Recognising the need for improved awareness, a group of women at The Bot Platform have developed a unique solution to help tackle the various stigmas surrounding the menstruating workforce, our digital assistant, Luna.
Luna offers cycle guidance, in-person support, tips and tricks, request support and seamless time-off management. Even better? It can be completely customised to suit your company’s needs!
Explore Luna’s Features:
🌟Cycle Guidance: Luna allows you to send and receive period tips and tricks to navigate your cycle seamlessly.
👩💻 In-Person Support: Luna connects with in-person resources and support channels.
🏢 Office Needs: Luna provides information on workplace accommodations and facilities catering to your needs.
📅 Book Time Off: Luna can easily connect to HR software or management teams to make booking sick leave stress & stigma free.
Luna’s aim is to make workplaces genuinely supportive of women during their periods. Beyond practical help, it’s all about fostering open conversations between employers and employees. Our goal is to create a safe, comfortable space where women can openly share their challenges, and when needed, take time off without worrying about being judged. With Luna, it’s not just about resources; it’s about understanding and genuine support, ensuring every woman feels valued and embraced in the workplace.
Would you like to be one of the first companies in the world to trial Luna for free?
Then get in touch today and we can take the first step towards something truly innovative together.
