Employers must act to address ‘harmful taboos’ around periods, say campaigners

Employers must take proactive steps to address “harmful taboos” around menstruation, campaigners have warned, as research shows more than two-thirds of women in the UK have bad experiences at work because of their periods.

In a survey of more than 2,000 women by the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD), 69 per cent of participants said they had a negative experience at work because of their menstrual symptoms.

More than half said they had had to miss work because of their period symptoms, with one in five taking sick leave. Only one in 10 women said their organisation provided support for menstrual health.

Now campaigners have called on employers to address the “culture of discomfort and ignorance” around periods and implement policies that acknowledge the needs of women.

“It’s high time we address the glaring oversight of menstrual health in the workplace,” Clare Knox, CEO of the training provider See Her Thrive, told Femtech World.

“We have the power to change this narrative and create a workplace where every individual feels valued, respected and supported in managing their health needs.

“Ignoring this crucial aspect of employee health and wellbeing not only perpetuates harmful taboos but also undermines workplace inclusivity and support.”

Ruby Raut, founder and CEO of the period pants brand Wuka, said that considering that most women experience periods for about 40 years of their lives and spend significant time at work, workplaces must acknowledge the challenges associated with menstruation.

“Employers should normalise discussions about periods and recognise periods as a natural aspect of life, fostering a fairer and more supportive environment for all employees, regardless of gender.

“Additionally, offering accommodations such as flexible hours or rest areas for those experiencing discomfort during their period can greatly support employees’ wellbeing.”

Research shows period stigma, a term that refers to the negative perception of menstruation and those who menstruate, is still rife in the UK.

According to a survey by WaterAid published last year, eight in 10 women in the UK feel they are held back in their careers by taboos around periods, with a staggering 85 per cent reporting experiencing stress or anxiety when managing their periods at work.

Petchara Newson, business development coordinator at the period poverty charity Freedom4Girls, said it is disheartening to see that menstrual health continues to be overlooked in the workplace.

“The silence and stigma surrounding menstruation perpetuate a culture of discomfort and ignorance, making it challenging for women to access the support they need,” she told Femtech World.

“Employers must take proactive steps to address these issues and create a more inclusive environment for all employees. This includes implementing policies that acknowledge the needs of menstruators, such as providing menstrual products, offering flexible work hours or remote options and promoting open dialogue about menstrual health.”

Newson called for more education and awareness campaigns to “debunk” myths and misconceptions and tackle the lack of public understanding about menstruation.

“Educating managers is an incredibly important first step. If they are not equipped with the right knowledge, those with periods and especially heavy periods will not feel comfortable asking for support.”

Terri Harris, education and communication manager at Bloody Good Period, said employers should understand the unique experiences and challenges people face and act accordingly.

“Employers should focus on improving the communications, culture and broader policy around periods in the workplace – and at the heart of this all – tackle the stigma that too often still accompanies any discussion around menstruation.

“If stigma is not tackled, the result is that people who menstruate – no matter what workplace changes are put in place – will still struggle to get and ask for the appropriate support they need in the workplace,” she explained.

With the demand for reproductive health benefits on the rise, Lauren Berkemeyer, chief marketing officer at the insurtech firm Yu Life, said that companies that hope to remain attractive to employees in a tight labour market should do more to challenge “outdated attitudes” and support women.

“Women suffer from debilitating cramps or brain fog, things that hamper a their abilities to work, but are not seeking help. As a result, many drop out of work.

“Remote work options and flexible schedules are key solutions this problem. Second to that, I believe, are workplace benefits that provide menstrual and menopausal support.

“YuLife partners with great women’s health apps like Hertility and Stella which not only help women understand their bodies, but manage symptoms that stand in the way of them working.”