Premenstrual Symptoms and Work: Exploring Female Staff Experiences and Recommendations for Workplaces

Abstract

Most women experience some premenstrual symptoms during their reproductive years. Yet, this is an under-researched health issue, particularly in the context of work. This study aimed to: (i) understand the prevalence and severity of premenstrual symptoms experienced by working females, and their association with key work outcomes; (ii) explore factors that may be influencing these symptoms and their severity; and (iii) examine how organizations might help staff with premenstrual symptoms that may be impacting their working lives. An online, anonymous survey collected quantitative and qualitative data from 125 working women in the UK. Over 90% of the sample reported some premenstrual symptoms; 40% experienced premenstrual symptoms moderately or severely. Higher symptom severity was significantly (p < 0.05) associated with poor presenteeism, intention to reduce working hours, and higher work absence (time off work, being late, leaving early). Moderate/severe symptoms were significantly associated with several individual-related variables: lower perceived general health, higher alcohol consumption, poorer sleep quality, anxiety, depression, hormonal contraception, and using fewer coping approaches towards premenstrual symptoms (avoiding harm, adjusting energy levels); and work-related variables: poorer work–life balance, lower levels of psychological resilience, higher perceived work demands, less control over work. Disclosure of premenstrual symptoms and sickness absence because of premenstrual symptoms was very low, typically because of perceptions of appropriateness as a reason for work absence, gender of line managers (male), and it being a personal or embarrassing topic. Staff with moderate to severe premenstrual symptoms were statistically more likely to disclose reason for absence than those with milder symptoms. Recommendations and suggestions for employers and line managers include the need to train staff to improve knowledge about women’s experience of premenstrual symptoms, to be able to communicate effectively with women and to provide tailored support and resources for those who need it. Implications for future research, policy and practice are discussed.

Prevalência da Síndrome Pré-Menstrual em mulheres em idade reprodutiva

“…Os sintomas físicos mais frequentemente relatados na SPM e citados neste artigo estavam de acordo com outros trabalhos. 91,2% das mulheres com essa síndrome relataram sensibilidade mamária, dores de cabeça ou dores articulares e musculares, distensão abdominal, aumento de peso e 84,5% relataram fadiga ou falta de energia (Hardy & Hunter, 2021).…”

“…Os sintomas emocionais como: raiva ou irritabilidade (16,1 a 93,9%), isolamento social (44,9%), depressão (43,3%), confusão (34,1%) e sintomas de ansiedade foram os mais prevalentes, corroborando com os resultados deste estudo (Abeje & Berhanu, 2019;Hardy & Hunter, 2021); além de ânsia de choro, labilidade emocional e humor deprimido, que segundo Generalizada (TAG), sendo evidenciado que, uma mulher que já possua o TAG, tem até 7,65 vezes mais chances de desenvolver TDPM do que uma que não tem. Além disso, a associação dos dois transtornos se torna mais maléfica em relação à gravidade do TDPM com acentuação da ansiedade, depressão e irritabilidade durante a fase folicular.…”

“…Um outro estudo tailandês, no qual verificou-se a prevalência de SPM e seus impactos na vida de adolescentes, utilizando os critérios da ACOG ( 2009), Buddhabunyakan et al (2017) verificaram que esta síndrome foi associada à atividade educacional com uma maior falta de concentração e motivação, notas mais baixas e desempenho nas atividades comprometido, entretanto, os autores não observaram associação com absenteísmo e dificuldade no trabalho, além da qualidade das relações interpessoais. Divergindo dos autores supracitados, um estudo realizado especificamente sobre a SPM e suas consequências no trabalho mostrou que esse problema está associado à várias queixas ocupacionais, tais como dificuldade de concentração e realização de atividades, faltas durante o período menstrual e jornadas de trabalhos mais curtas devido aos sintomas (Hardy & Hunter, 2021). Weise et al (2019) reafirmaram ainda que a SPM severa (TDPM) está associada ao sofrimento significativo, gerando interferência no dia a dia no trabalho bem como na família, no desempenho social e nos relacionamentos.…”

Menstrual cycle-associated symptoms and workplace productivity in US employees: A cross-sectional survey of users of the Flo mobile phone app

“… 13 Higher levels of PMS and PMDD symptoms have been associated with impaired productivity and absenteeism. 14 – 16 Furthermore, conditions of the uterus, such as endometriosis (i.e. an often painful condition where the endometrium starts to grow outside of the uterus) can have a significant impact on women's performance at work.…”

“…PMS and PMDD are defined by a series of psychological and physical symptoms occurring in the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle and causing dysfunction in social or economic performance (PMS) and/or significant affective and functional impairment (PMDD) [13]. Higher levels of PMS and PMDD symptoms have been associated with impaired productivity and absenteeism [14][15][16].…”