Menstrual health is an essential aspect of women's overall well-being, yet it remains a taboo topic in many workplaces. As more women enter and thrive in the workforce, employers must recognize menstruation as a natural biological process and take meaningful steps to support menstrual health at work. This isn’t just about comfort; it’s about dignity, productivity, and equity.
Dr. Seema Manuja, Director of Gynaecology at Sarvodaya Hospital, Sector-8, Faridabad, shares key insights every workplace should consider.
1. Provide Access to Menstrual Products
Providing menstrual hygiene products—such as sanitary pads, tampons, or menstrual cups—in the workplace is one of the simplest yet most impactful ways to support menstrual health. These essentials should be freely available or offered at a subsidized rate in all women’s restrooms. Just like soap and toilet paper, menstrual products must be recognized as basic necessities, not optional amenities.
2. Clean and Private Washrooms
Clean, accessible, and private washrooms are a basic requirement for menstrual health. Women need safe and hygienic spaces to change menstrual products and manage personal hygiene. This includes having sanitary disposal bins with lids and ensuring regular cleaning.
3. Promote Open Culture and Conversation
Workplaces should cultivate a culture where menstruation is not viewed as shameful, awkward, or uncomfortable to discuss. Creating an open and supportive environment is key to breaking long-standing stigmas and fostering inclusivity.
4. Flexible Work Policies
Many women experience significant discomfort during their periods, especially those with conditions like PCOS or endometriosis. Implementing flexible work arrangements—such as adjustable hours, remote work options, or menstrual leave—can enable employees to manage their health without compromising their performance or productivity.
5. Awareness and Education
Regular sessions on menstrual health, hygiene, and nutrition can empower employees with the knowledge they need to care for their well-being. Inviting healthcare professionals or gynecologists to lead these discussions ensures that the information shared is accurate, credible, and responsive to real concerns.
6. Supportive Infrastructure
Larger organizations can go a step further by providing dedicated wellness rooms where women can rest if they’re feeling unwell. Access to on-site medical support or partnerships with nearby clinics can also help address urgent health needs promptly and effectively.
Menstrual health is not just a personal matter—it’s a workplace priority. Supporting women in managing their periods with dignity and ease contributes to a more inclusive, compassionate, and productive work culture. When organizations take menstrual health seriously, they send a powerful message: our employees matter—not just as professionals, but as whole individuals.
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