Normalising conversations about menstrual cycles at work

Hannah Samano, founder of the UK’s first cycle-care platform Unfabled, discusses what employers can do to destigmatise period-talk

Tell us something about the link between menstrual cycles and mental health, and how this can affect the workplace?

The impact that the menstrual cycle can have on our mental wellbeing is often underestimated but it is far from being solely physiological. Most people who menstruate will experience some symptoms of premenstrual syndrome, including cramping, mood swings, headaches, stress and anxiety; in fact, a recent study from Unfabled found that 92% of people experience difficult symptoms in relation to their menstrual cycles.

Some individuals can also develop more severe symptoms. Between 5 and 8% of women globally also suffer from premenstrual dysphoric disorder – an incredibly severe form of premenstrual syndrome which causes both emotional and physical symptoms and, in some cases can result in suicidal thoughts.

These symptoms can, in turn, make work incredibly difficult with people reporting difficulty in concentrating, self-doubt, paranoia, fatigue, tearfulness, a heightened sensitivity to the environment and people, outbursts, and finding social interaction particularly difficult.

Experiencing these symptoms will, of course, have a direct impact on how an individual carries out day-to-day activities and, as such, more and more organisations are offering menstrual leave to their employees.

It is vital that we talk about the impact of our cycles within the workplace, normalise these conversations, and work to remove any stigma around the associated symptoms.

What sort of menstrual care policies would you like to see more widely introduced?

Protection policies, and policies focusing on the language surrounding periods, would be incredibly beneficial for the inclusion of trans men who still have periods and non-binary people who have periods.

Do you have any tips for making conversations about menstruation less taboo in the workplace?

Ultimately, these conversations need to be led with a top-down approach. I believe that management, first and foremost, has a responsibility to ensure that these conversations are taking place within the workplace and that the company is helping people who have periods feel supported about all aspects of their health.

It’s imperative that management creates a safe space in which each employee knows that they’re going to be able to talk about any challenges relating to all areas of their health – from mental health through to the physical symptoms associated with menstruation. Leadership teams are often predominately male, so it is imperative that they educate themselves on menstrual health – including menopausal and perimenopausal health – so that they’re fully-equipped to lead teams with women and people with periods within them.

It’s incredibly concerning when people with periods find themselves lying about their reasons for being sick, as opposed to feeling empowered to share the truth as to why they are suffering. However, until management breaks down this stigma, and approaches these conversations with their teams, it is incredibly challenging to expect people to battle through this stigma alone.

Another way companies can help to ensure that menstruation becomes less taboo is by working with charities that actively support period poverty. When companies work with charities that support this issue (such as Bloody Good Period) this can really help to break down barriers when it comes to awareness and stigma.

Bloody Good Employers is incredibly beneficial. The group offers support and education for employers who are committed to promoting equality, diversity and the rights of all workers to be treated fairly. Their primary objective is to go into businesses and help them to build a better workplace and culture surrounding menstrual health.

What can those of us with menstrual cycles do to advocate for ourselves in the workplace?

We need to prioritise self-care. Taking the time to slow down and listen to what your body is saying to you, not overworking or over-scheduling your diary during this time if you’re not feeling your best can significantly aid your mental health and wellbeing. Speaking to other colleagues, and management, within the workplace can help us to feel safe and supported as opposed to feeling isolated.

We need to take the brave step of being open with our managers about when we are struggling due to our menstrual cycle. If your period affects your ability to work then your manager should know that so they can be supportive. Also, please see a doctor if your menstrual cycle frequently affects your ability to perform day-to-day tasks.