MenoBloom Hormonal & Menopause Wellness Clinic understand the importance of workplaces to support women’s menstruation and hormonal wellness. Menstruation is a natural biological occurrence that affects almost half of the world’s workforce at some point in their life. Menstrual health, despite its prevalence, remains to be a stigmatised topic in many workplaces. Women experiencing menstrual challenges, including pain, fatigue, and emotional distress, often struggle in professional settings that lack awareness and supportive policies. Educating workplaces and implementing inclusive strategies can enhance employee well-being, productivity, and workplace culture.
The Importance of Menstrual Education in the Workplace
Many workplaces fail to acknowledge the impact of menstruation on employees’ daily lives. According to Levitt and Barnack-Tavlaris (2020), menstrual health is a vital sign of overall well-being, and ignoring it in professional environments can contribute to absenteeism and reduced productivity. To build a more understanding workplace, employers and colleagues must be informed about menstrual health and its impact 
Ways to Educate and Raise Awareness:
Conducting Awareness Programs– Workplaces should organise training sessions to educate employees about menstrual health and its impact on work performance.
Encouraging Open Conversations– Creating safe spaces where employees feel comfortable discussing menstrual health can reduce stigma and promote inclusivity.
Incorporating Menstrual Health into Wellness Initiatives– Just as companies prioritize mental and physical well-being, menstrual health should be a recognized aspect of employee wellness.
How Workplaces Can Support Women Facing Menstrual Challenges
To foster an inclusive environment, companies should offer practical and policy-based support. Here are a few ways workplaces can help:
Implementing Flexible Work Policies
Many women experience severe pain, fatigue, or heavy bleeding during their cycles (this could be due to endometriosis). Offering flexible work arrangements, such as remote work options or flexible schedules, can help employees manage their symptoms while maintaining productivity.
Introducing Menstrual Leave and Supportive Policies
More companies worldwide are adopting menstrual leave policies, allowing employees to take time off without stigma. Organizations should also think about updating their sick leave policies to cover health concerns related to menstruation.
Normalizing Menstrual Health Discussions
A workplace culture that normalises discussions around menstruation creates a more inclusive environment. Employers should motivate leadership and management to publicly champion menstrual health policies and advocate for practices that are sensitive to gender issues.
At MenoBloom, we advocate for menstrual health awareness in all aspects of life, including the workplace. Educating workplaces about menstrual health and implementing supportive measures is essential for fostering an inclusive and productive work environment. By adopting flexible policies, and encouraging open conversations, employers can ensure that women entering and experiencing menstrual challenges feel valued and supported in their professional journey. Addressing menstrual health in the workplace is not just about comfort; it is about equality, productivity, and overall well-being.
Sources
- Endometriosis Australia – https://endometriosisaustralia.org/endo-at-work-program/
- Endozone – https://www.endozone.com.au/advice-bosses
- Levitt, R.B; Barnack-Tavlaris, J.L (2020) ‘Addressing Menstruation in the Workplace: The Menstrual Leave Debate’; Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK565643/
- Ramici, A (2025) ‘The effect of work environment on the relationship between the menstrual cycle, women’s work performance and well-being’; Available at:
- https://link.springer.com/book/10.1007/978-3-658-47038-8
