Menstruation In The Workplace

Samantha Parker https://www.forthwithlife.co.uk 1m 334 #menstruation

The views of this article are the perspective of the author and may not be reflective of Confessions of the Professions.

New period study shows women feel uncomfortable telling management the reason for workplace absences

42% of women in new study felt menstruation wasn’t taken seriously in workplace

For most women, periods are a regular part of their life that occurs every month from their early-teens to their mid-50s. For some, however, these natural occurrences can cause disruption and discomfort.

Whilst many women are able to continue working while menstruating, for those women who are badly affected by period side-effects, it may be necessary to take a day or two off work to rest and recover their strength. While taking time off due to illness is fairly common, there seems to be a discrepancy in how women are treated when they take time off due to their period, rather than another health issue. 

New data from a survey conducted by women’s health company, Forth, has revealed more insight into how women across the UK are affected by their periods. The survey found that whilst some women required just one day off work due to their period (9%), many more have taken at least 2 days off work due to period side-effects (20%). Amongst those who had taken time off, the general consensus was that they didn’t feel comfortable telling their line-manager the reason for their absence, with just 27% being honest with management about their periods. Amongst those who did not feel comfortable telling their manager, there were 8 categories; 

Periods are a completely natural occurrence in the female body. Despite this, there remains a stigma surrounding periods. This can sadly lead to women feeling uncomfortable discussing their symptoms at work or with a GP.

To explore this further, Forth conducted a survey of 1,000 women in the UK aged 18 and above who aren’t using hormonal birth control, HRT or gel. 

They quizzed these women on their symptoms, experiences and confidence when it comes to discussing periods.

The full report highlights all the details, but if you need any further information, images or quotes, please feel free to contact me.

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