In the pursuit of gender equality, workplaces play a crucial role. However, to truly foster inclusivity and empowerment, we must address issues that are often overlooked, such as menstruation. In many societies, menstruation remains shrouded in stigma and taboo, leading to discrimination and exclusion of women in various aspects of life, including the workplace. In Pakistan, cultural norms and misconceptions further exacerbate these challenges, making it difficult for women to fully participate and thrive in the workforce. Among women in developed as well as developing countries who start their period unexpectedly at work, 96% leave work for period products. Around 4 out of 10 women who menstruate took a sick leave from their workplace due to unavailability of products and separate washrooms at workplaces. Over 80% of women experience presenteeism (a loss of productivity while at work) for multiple days each cycle. According to USAID, a measurable portion of the gender wage gap can be attributed to increased absences from work due to menstruation (2% in the US and approximately 12% in Italy).
Days for Girls, The Policy Project, Share the Dignity, Population Services International Europe, The Pad Project, The International Sanitary Supply Association, and The Toilet Board Coalition partnered to create the Period Positive Workplace initiative to help organizations around the world build menstrual equity. Period Positive Workplaces support gender equality by providing period products at work. Workplaces that provide period products report reduced absenteeism, increased productivity, and higher collaboration from employees who menstruate.
“Growing research shows that inclusive policies improve company retention and performance, as well as foster appreciation and commitment from employees.”
Global studies show companies that invest in menstrual health management see benefits worth more than double the cost because of decreased absenteeism and higher retention. Various corporate firms and financial institutions around the globe including Morgan Stanley have been certified as period positive workplaces. Period-positive workplaces directly contribute to SDG 5 by:
Ensuring Equal Treatment: By providing equitable support and facilities for menstruating individuals, workplaces contribute to creating an environment where women can participate fully and equally.
Breaking Barriers: Addressing menstrual health in the workplace removes a significant barrier to women’s participation and advancement. When women are supported during menstruation, they are better able to focus on their work and pursue career opportunities.
Promoting Health and Well-being: Women’s health is a fundamental aspect of gender equality. Period-positive workplaces prioritize women’s health by ensuring access to menstrual hygiene products, promoting hygiene practices, and addressing menstrual-related health concerns.
Empowering Women: When women are supported and respected in the workplace, they are more likely to feel empowered to assert their rights and advocate for gender equality both within and outside the workplace.
Cyntax Health Projects, an ISO certified Contract Research Organization, has collaborated with the coalition to become the 1st coalition ally from Pakistan to advocate for period positive workplaces, providing Cyntax own researched and manufactured eco-friendly organic menstrual products at workplaces and help organizations get certified. The objectives of period positive workplaces include:
• To support gender equality by building menstrual equity at workplaces and increase awareness and understanding of menstrual health at workplaces.
• To ensure easy access to safe, effective and quality organic menstrual products in all workplaces, so that employees feel comfortable and supported during their menstrual cycle.
• To facilitate the formation of support groups within the workplace for women employees to share experiences, advice, and support related to menstrual health.
• To enhance menstrual health awareness and support within the workplace through our menstrual health mobile app, designed to offer educational resources and confidential support for employees managing their menstrual health.
To conclude, menstrual health should be a priority for workplaces in Pakistan. Creating period-positive workplaces is not just about addressing a biological function; it’s about creating a more equitable and inclusive society. By breaking the silence surrounding menstruation and fostering a culture of acceptance and support, we can take significant strides towards achieving gender equality and SDG 5. Together, let’s work towards a future where menstruation is no longer a barrier but a symbol of empowerment and equality.
Thankyou
Prof. Dr. Madeeha Malik
Executive Director, GIPI