period positivity

Nurturing Period Positivity In Indian Workspaces

Truworth Wellness

Feb 12, 2024 • 4 min read

Let's talk about something as common as chai in India but rarely spoken about openly – menstruation. For countless women in our diverse country, it's not just a monthly routine; it's a shared experience that often remains unaddressed in the workplace.

This blog aims to spotlight the crucial need for better menstrual support at work, bust some myths, delve into the varied landscape of menstruation in Indian workplaces, acknowledge that the period experience differs for everyone, and emphasize the importance of wellness campaigns and HR initiatives as part of workplace wellness programs.

A study by the International Journal of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity found that menstrual symptoms can lead to a 20% decrease in productivity and a 40% increase in absenteeism among menstruating individuals.

Menstruation at Work in India

In India, where the culture is as vibrant as our festivals, a significant portion of our workforce grapples with menstruation monthly. It's high time we acknowledge this as a collective reality and work towards making our workplaces more understanding.

Productivity and Well-being: Juggling deadlines with cramps and mood swings is no easy feat. Acknowledging the impact of menstrual symptoms helps us create workplaces that are not just supportive but also conducive to the well-being of everyone.
Stigma and Discrimination: India, with its rich cultural tapestry, often views menstruation through a lens of stigma. This can lead to discrimination and adversely affect the mental health of those going through it.
Period Experience Differs: Let's get real – not everyone's period experience is the same. For some, it's a minor inconvenience, while for others, it's a monthly battle with pain and discomfort. Understanding and respecting this diversity is crucial for creating workplaces that cater to everyone's needs.

Menstruation is often surrounded by stigma in Indian workplaces. A survey conducted by Tata Steel found that about 36% of women feel uncomfortable discussing menstruation-related issues at work.

Must Check: Empowering Women at Work

Wellness Campaigns in the Workplace

Promoting Period Positivity: Wellness campaigns can play a pivotal role in creating awareness about menstruation, and fostering an environment where open conversations about periods are encouraged rather than shunned.
Education and Understanding: Workplaces can organize workshops and seminars as part of wellness campaigns to educate employees about the physical and emotional aspects of menstruation. This understanding helps break down stereotypes and reduces stigma.
Wellness Initiatives for All: Integrating period wellness into the overall workplace wellness program ensures that everyone, regardless of gender, is involved and educated about the challenges faced by menstruating individuals.

HR Initiatives for Menstrual Support

Policy Advocacy: Human Resources (HR) departments can take the lead in advocating for and implementing policies that support menstrual well-being. This includes flexible work arrangements, menstrual leave policies, and access to menstrual products.
Creating Inclusive Work Environments: HR can spearhead initiatives to create inclusive work environments where employees feel comfortable discussing their menstrual needs without fear of judgment.
Training Programs: Conducting training programs for managers and staff on menstrual health and its impact on work can foster empathy and understanding, promoting a more supportive workplace culture.

Myths Surrounding Menstruation

Myth: Menstruation is a Private Matter: Sure, it's personal, but that doesn't mean it should be confined to hushed conversations. Opening up a dialogue in our workplaces can create a culture where everyone feels supported.
Myth: Menstruating Individuals Are Unproductive: Untrue. Every person, regardless of their menstrual status, is fully capable. A bit of understanding and flexibility can go a long way in making our workplaces more inclusive and empowering.
Myth: Periods Are Always the Same: Far from it. Each person's menstrual experience is unique. Recognizing and respecting this diversity can transform our workplaces into spaces that celebrate individuality.

Deep-rooted cultural taboos around menstruation persist in India. Breaking the silence and challenging these taboos are essential for fostering supportive workplace environments.

Policies and Initiatives in India

Flexible Work Arrangements: Picture this: a workplace that understands and accommodates the ebbs and flows of the menstrual cycle. It's time for Indian workplaces to consider remote work or flexible hours to make the monthly grind a bit easier.
Menstrual Leave Policies: Some forward-thinking organizations are already catching on to this. Advocating for and implementing menstrual leave policies in India recognizes the unique challenges faced by employees during menstruation.
Accessible Menstrual Products: For our workplaces to be truly period-friendly, we need to ensure that menstrual products are not just available but affordable. Every restroom should be stocked, and disposal should be handled discreetly to create an environment that’s considerate of everyone's needs.

Wellness is not a destination; it's a lifestyle. Let's partner to make it accessible to all.

Conclusion

Creating a period-friendly workplace in India isn't just about ticking a box; it's about fostering an environment where everyone – regardless of their monthly cycle – can thrive. By breaking the silence, dispelling myths, implementing supportive policies, and incorporating wellness campaigns and HR initiatives, we can build workplaces that reflect the true spirit of our diverse and inclusive nation. It's time for India to lead the way in recognizing menstruation as a shared human experience deserving of respect and understanding in every workplace across the country.