Half of UK women say periods shape daily decisions

Millions of women in the UK say their menstrual cycle influences key decisions about how they live, from what they wear to when they exercise.

A survey of 5,000 women found that 51 per cent felt their periods affected daily choices, with 32 per cent planning sexual activity around their cycle and 21 per cent adjusting what and when they eat.

The research also showed that women often planned social events (23 per cent), sleep (20 per cent) and even work meetings (11 per cent) based on where they were in their cycle.

The findings come from a study by monthlies, a brand that produces natural supplements to support menstrual symptoms throughout the month.

A monthlies spokesperson said: “Every woman needs to learn about their own period journey and work out what works best for them in terms of how to manage their period pain, as well as when to get the best out of themselves personally, professionally and socially.”

Among those who experience period pain, 54 per cent said they could predict exactly which days it would occur each month.

The survey also found that 91 per cent of women reported ovulation pain – discomfort when the ovary releases an egg – typically around days 14 to 15 of their cycle.

Of those affected, 63 per cent said the pain lasted more than two days.

The average sufferer also reported experiencing bloating for just over seven days each month.

Just seven per cent of respondents said they felt balanced and “normal” throughout their entire cycle.