A study conducted by Heriot-Watt University has uncovered the ongoing challenges faced by menstruating individuals in professional settings. By reviewing evidence and conducting 55 detailed interviews, the research highlights how menstruation remains a cultural taboo that is often ignored or insufficiently addressed in workplaces.
The Hidden Struggles of Menstruating Employees
The study exposes a range of difficulties faced by women, trans, and non-binary individuals who menstruate. These include:
- Inadequate Facilities: Many workplaces lack proper access to toilets and washing facilities, an issue particularly pronounced in remote or non-office environments.
- Physical and Mental Health Impacts: Menstruation-related pain, mental health symptoms, and societal stigma contribute to additional stress.
- Stigma and Concealment: The pressure to hide menstrual blood is widespread, especially in roles requiring white uniforms, such as laboratory work, where fears of visible “leak-throughs” are a constant concern.
These barriers not only lead to feelings of isolation but also impact concentration, productivity, mental health, and even career choices.
Unique Challenges for Marginalised Groups
The research also sheds light on the compounded difficulties faced by neurodivergent individuals and those with long-term health conditions or disabilities. Specific challenges include:
- Medication Conflicts: Hormone replacement therapies can interfere with other medications, exacerbating health issues.
- Delayed Support: A lack of understanding and support from healthcare providers often results in delayed diagnoses and inadequate workplace adjustments.
The Call for Change
To address these widespread issues, the study calls on workplaces to take meaningful steps towards better supporting menstruating employees. Key recommendations include:
- Educating Managers: Providing training for line managers to handle menstrual health concerns with empathy and understanding.
- Inclusive Policies: Introducing menstrual health education programmes and policies designed to remove barriers.
- Practical Solutions: Ensuring hygiene products are available in all restroom facilities.
Building More Inclusive Workplaces
This research is a powerful reminder that organisations must confront outdated taboos and create environments that respect and accommodate the diverse needs of their workforce. Addressing menstrual health is not merely an act of inclusion; it is essential for promoting healthier, more equitable, and more productive workplaces for everyone.
