In light of a recent survey by Lifesum, a significant portion of women are considering job changes based on menstrual health support availability at workplaces. Over 50% of women surveyed expressed readiness to leave their current job for one offering better menstrual health practices.
- An overwhelming majority of survey participants are aware of the nutritional benefits that can aid in managing menstrual symptoms, yet workplace support remains lacking.
- The study highlights crucial impacts of menstrual cycles on energy levels and productivity, emphasizing the need for effective workplace policies.
- A substantial percentage of women report inadequate workplace support, with a significant number expressing the need for flexible work arrangements and menstrual leave.
- Lifesum plans to introduce a specialized women’s health blood test to enhance understanding and management of hormonal health.
A recent survey conducted by Lifesum highlights a considerable gap in menstrual health support within workplaces. With over half of the 2,100 women surveyed indicating their willingness to change jobs for better menstrual health support, this underscores a significant issue in the current employment landscape.
Despite 82% of respondents acknowledging the role of nutrition in alleviating menstrual symptoms, the survey found a significant lack of workplace support in this area. Wesleigh Roeca, the Workplace Well-being Director at Lifesum, emphasized the importance of understanding the impact of nutrition on hormonal health, noting that it affects various aspects of well-being including mood, hunger, energy, and fertility.
The survey reveals menstrual cycles significantly affect workplace performance. 85.9% of participants noted decreased energy and focus during their menstrual cycle, while 56.9% reported declines in mental well-being, and 52.7% and 48.7% noted increased stress levels and reduced productivity, respectively.
Alarmingly, 70.4% of respondents indicated a lack of workplace support for menstrual or hormonal health, such as flexible work hours or free menstrual products. A staggering 83.9% continued working despite feeling unwell due to menstrual symptoms. Desired support measures highlighted in the survey include flexible work arrangements and designated leave days for menstrual health.
Lifesum is taking proactive steps by planning the launch of a specialized women’s health blood test in partnership with LYKON. This test will provide a comprehensive biomarker analysis and personalized nutritional guidance aimed at optimizing hormonal health, initially launching in Europe and later expanding to the U.S.
The survey by Lifesum starkly underscores the urgent necessity for improved menstrual health support in workplaces to foster a conducive working environment for women.